17 June 2016

News Story: Philippines' incoming military chief expresses support for martial law in fighting Abu Sayyaf

MANILA, June 16 (Xinhua) -- Incoming Philippines' Armed Forces (AFP) chief Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya said on Thursday that he is open to the declaration of Martial Law not only in Sulu, but also in Basilan, to solve the Abu Sayyaf problem there.

Visaya, the outgoing commander of the AFP's Southern Luzon Command, said the military will conduct a study on the imposition of Martial Law in these areas after he assumes the military leadership on July 1.

"As far as I'm concerned, that is an option ... We will study the declaration of Martial Law in Jolo and Basilan because there appears to be a failure of governance (in these areas). Perhaps, that is one option that can be undertaken to establish order in Jolo and Basilan," said Visaya.

Read the full story at Xinhua