THE Davao City government and its private sector said they support President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s plan not to extend Martial Law in Mindanao.

“We expect Mindanao’s high growth and investor interest to continue growing and express our intent to pursue cooperation with the Davao City government, the police and the military to help maintain peace and security,” the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry said in a social media post.

City councilors also welcomed the announcement that president was not inclined to extend martial rule.

“I’m sure the decision is backed by proper study by the military,” Councilor Pilar C. Braga said. “We trust such decision.”

Early this year, the city council passed a resolution calling for the exemption of Davao from the imposition of Martial Law. Davao City Mayor and presidential daughter Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio supported the call.

The president placed Mindanao under martial rule in 2017 after extremists linked to Islamic State raided Marawi City, leaving about 100 people dead and displacing thousands after clashes with the military.

Congress extended the 60-day martial rule until the end of 2017 to help authorities end the Marawi siege that lasted about five months.

Lawmakers again extended martial law, upon the request of Mr. Duterte, in Mindanao until the end of this year to help fight terrorism. — Carmelito Q. Francisco

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