PRESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte on Thursday said he is not inclined to extend martial rule in Mindanao unless local officials seek it.

“I am not advocating any continuance of martial law,” the President said in a speech in Ilocos Sur.

“I would not hesitate to say yes” to governors, mayors and even congressmen who think martial law is still needed, he said.

Presidential spokesman Salvador S. Panelo on Tuesday said the president would extend martial rule if the military recommends it. — Arjay L.Balinbin

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