Martial law in Mindanao to benefit Visayas

BAYBAY CITY, Leyte June 1 -- Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla has expressed support to the declaration of martial law in Mindanao, saying that improved peace and order situation in southern Philippines will benefit Visayas provinces. 

But the governor said that martial law should be lifted immediately once the situation in Marawi City improves so as to prevent abuses. 

“For me, what President Rodrigo Duterte did was good to totally get rid of the problem with terrorist groups,” Petilla said on Wednesday.

The League of Municipalities of the Philippines-Leyte Chapter will also issue a resolution supporting the declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao, according its president Javier town Mayor Leonardo Javier.

On extending help to victims of week-long Marawi siege, the provincial government here is still coordinating with other agencies on sending assistance.

The official is hopeful that the conflict will be addressed soon by the military and policemen so that affected families will be able to return to their homes. 

Meanwhile, Leyte province remains peaceful even after the bombing incident in Hilongos, Leyte late last year with a Maute group member tagged as the main suspect.

“The police and other law enforcement group are still on top of the situation,” Petilla said. (Roel T. Amazona/PNA)
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