MANILA, Philippines – To prevent possible lawless violence, President Gloria Arroyo declared a state of martial law in Maguindanao, executive secretary Eduardo Ermita announced this morning (Dec. 5).
“After the national security council meeting and several consultations, the proclamation was crafted and signed by the president, 9p.m. last night,” said Ermita.
Press secretary Cerge Remonde stressed, the said decision was taken as a bold step in answer to the cry of justice of the victims of the Maguindanao massacre.
Ermita revealed that reports from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) there are already armed groups in Maguindanao that planning to take hostile action if the Ampatuans are arrested. Aside from this high powered weapons and ammunitions were also seized near the area of residence of the Ampatuans.
“We feel that this is an imminent threat and so we recommended for this proclamation,” said AFP chief Gen. Victor Ibrado.
Ibrado added, “As of last night we have started inviting personalities and as of 7a.m. this morning, Gov. Zaldy Ampatuan of ARMM was invited by the AFP and PNP. Some personalities that we have invited have already sent fillers that they will surrender while the location of the other alleged suspects are still being determined.”
Vernadette Joven
(philstar.com)
Updated December 05, 2009 07:43 AM
Follow us on: