Martial law declaration a political decision -- AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 16): Martial law declaration a political decision -- AFP

The decision to implement martial law, regardless of the threats and circumstances, is a political one and not in the purview of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

This was stressed by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla Monday when asked about President Rodrigo Duterte's statement saying that if needed, he might declare martial law, to fully fight the illegal drug menace.

"First of all, it's a political decision and based on the earlier pronouncements of our President, he believes (martial law) is not the solution. But then also, he also mentioned that if (it) needs and if he has to, he may recourse to (this) action in order to save or help our country," he said in Filipino.

Padilla said the declaration of martial law is a decision purely done by political leaders based on the route of information and the circumstances.

He added that the AFP is not recommending any kind of martial law rule.

"Right now, we're able to operate and catch all the people who have been perpetrating violence and we are operating within the bounds of law, so currently we are able to accomplish our mission without the complexity of needing to have any kind of special rule applied," Padilla stressed.

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