President Rodrigo Duterte is not keen on imposing martial law but said that it could be a “contingency” measure to solve widespread violence in the country.

At a dinner with select members of the media in Malacañang, Duterte was asked about criticisms that his idea to suspend the privilege of writ of habeas corpus may lead to the declaration of martial law.

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“I am not a fan of Martial Law. Abugado ako e. Natakot yung mga tao sa (I’m a lawyer. People were afraid of) martial law but if ever, martial law is a contingency to meet widespread violence,” he said on Tuesday night.

In a speech before the Jewish Association of the Philippines in Makati City last October 4, Duterte admitted that there were instances that he was tempted to declare martial law due to the worsening drug menace in the country.

But in speech on November 11, the President said he would not declare martial law but may be forced instead to suspend the privilege if lawlessness in the country intensifies.

Duterte cited the escalating state of rebellion in Mindanao.

“Mindanao is in the state of rebellion. If you go south, there is no guarantee that you can go there to Tawi-Tawi (safe),” he told reporters. RAM

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