Andanar to Filipino people: Rally against violent extremism

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar on Thursday asked the Filipino people to rally against violent extremism and support President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of martial law in Mindanao. (PNA photo)

MANILA—Communications Secretary Martin Andanar on Thursday asked the Filipino people to rally against violent extremism and support President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of martial law in Mindanao.

“The declaration of Martial Law is a war against violent extremism; a war that every sovereign, peace-loving country of the world is likewise waging. It is every Filipino’s patriotic duty to support all efforts to preserve the unity, integrity and safety of our country, as well as the freedom, justice and a democratic way of life, enshrined, not just on a piece of paper but deeply engraved in our hearts,” Andanar said in a statement.

The Presidential Communications Chief said the President declared Martial Law “to save the country from rebellious acts of terrorism.”

He stressed anew President Duterte’s commitment to the Filipino people to protect the present and future generations from destruction by eradicating corruption, illegal drugs and violence sowed by terror groups such as the Maute group.

The President has declared martial law for 60 days in Mindanao, after clashes between government forces and the Maute group.

The President made the announcement Tuesday night during his official visit to Russia, which he was forced to cut short.