Right before flying out for Laos, President Rodrigo Duterte signed a proclamation placing the Philippines under a state of national emergency on account of lawless violence.
Assistant Communications Secretary Christian Ablan says that the declaration does not strip people of their rights. The focus is an increase of police and military action especially in the major areas of concern. The proclamation was mainly due to the escape of prisoners, beheadings, and the bombing at a Davao market in Mindanao.
The police and military are expected to supress lawlessness and violence but still “with regard to fundamental and civil political rights,” said Christian.
“There is no loss of civil or political liberties so there is no suspension of the writ of habeas corpus. There is no declaration of martial law. It’s simply a call to the military and the police to help out,” he further said.
No further details on how long the declaration will be in effect, but for now stay safe.
Photo courtesy of Pixabay
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