By Michael Punongbayan
MANILA, Philippines - Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is calling on enemies of the state, particularly those sowing terror in Mindanao, to surrender or face police and military action under martial law.
Local governments expressed support for the extension of martial law in Mindanao but Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman of the opposition would not throw in the towel and said he would ask the Supreme Court to nullify Congress’ decision.
Thousands of workers are also staging a rally today to dramatize their protest against the move as President Duterte delivers his second State of the Nation Address.
“Sa mga patuloy na nalilihis ang landas, magbalik loob na kayo. Handa kayong tanggapin ng inyong gobyerno anumang oras na gustuhin ninyo nang walang hinihinging kondisyon (To those who continue to go astray, go back to the fold. The government is ready to accept you anytime you want without setting conditions),” he said a day after Congress approved to extend President Duterte’s declaration of military rule in Mindanao up to Dec. 31.
“But if you persist in your crooked ways, the Armed Forces and the police will come after you without letup,” he said.
Lorenzana said the opportunity of surrendering without condition is being offered so that everyone could move toward progress in an upright or righteous way that the government is offering.
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