DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The Duterte siblings are supportive of their father’s decision not to extend the Martial Law implementation in Mindanao as it nearly expires this month.
In a statement released by the City Information Office (CIO), Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio welcomed the decision of the President, saying that “the lifting of Martial Law would entice more foreign tourists and investors” and would be beneficial for the economy of the Davao City.
Mayor Sara also admitted the adverse effects of Martial Law to the city, particularly its negative connotation in the international community.
“When it comes to local investment, there is no problem. But in the international community, the declaration of Martial Law and travel ban coming from their governments really affected us,” Mayor Sara added.
Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte said he trusts his father’s decision as the President is more knowledgeable on the matter.
The young Duterte who is new to his position as city vice mayor said his father knows what is best for Mindanao as he has long experience in serving the public.
“That is the discretion of our President. If he sees that there is no need for Martial Law extension, I suppose he has sufficient wisdom and knowledge on the matter. It is his decision, I will honor that because he knows better,” Vice Mayor Baste said.
When asked on his personal take on the expiration of martial rule in Mindanao, Vice Mayor Duterte said he would leave it to the military and police especially on the matter of security.
In August, the City Council asked the Office of the President to exempt the city in the Mindanao-wide martial rule implementation as they say it affected mostly the economic and tourism aspects of the city.
This was followed by a statement from Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio last October after her office furnished a communication letter and a copy of the resolution of the city council to the House of Representative and the Senate.
The Police Regional Office 11 also backed the plea of the city government after having reported a decrease in the city’s crime volume and crime rate.
Since the declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao, progressive groups in Davao region has been actively criticizing the declaration saying that it only violates the rights of the civilians.
Jay Apiag of Karapatan Southern Mindanao secretary-general said the worst case of human rights violations happened under martial rule resulting in 96 killings mostly among farmers and indigenous peoples. (davaotoday.com)
