LOCAL governments units (LGUs) in Mindanao support the extension of martial law, according to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). In a statement on Tuesday, DILG Spokesperson Jonathan E. Malaya said, “In fact, we have not heard of any local chief executive in Mindanao who opposes the extension.” He added that martial law would “ensure an improved security climate especially in election hotspots.” The statement also quotes Philippine Councilors League National Chairperson Danilo C. Dayanghirang, a councilor from Davao City, as saying that martial law has been good for economic developments in Mindanao. “Practically, the economy is up and criminality is down. Infrastructures and investments are growing due to an improved peace and order situation in Mindanao. Politically, we are very stable as well,” said Mr. Dayanghirang. The Senate and the House of Representatives are scheduled to hold a joint session today, to discuss the President’s request for maintaining martial law over the entire Mindanao islands until end-2019. — Vince Angelo C. Ferreras

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