ML extension in Mindanao faces tougher Senate scrutiny: Lacson

“We have to take a closer look this time if Malacañang asks Congress to have another extension kasi ang haba na ng panahon, dapat malaki na ang nagawa (because of the length of time, there should have been substantial results),” Lacson said during the regular Kapihan sa Senado forum. (File Photo: Senator Ping Lacson/Facebook)

MANILA — Senator Panfilo Lacson said Thursday any request to further extend martial law in Mindanao will not be easily approved this time around by Congress, as senators are bound to closely scrutinize the gains earned in the previous extensions if another one would be granted.

“We have to take a closer look this time if Malacañang asks Congress to have another extension kasi ang haba na ng panahon, dapat malaki na ang nagawa (because of the length of time, there should have been substantial results),” Lacson said during the regular Kapihan sa Senado forum.

“That’s why this time around, I don’t think it will be as easy as before. Hindi ganun kabilis makakakuha ng boto (It’s not easy to get votes). They will have to justify more and convince us more than how they did it on the first and second extension,” he added.

Lacson was reacting to the statements made by top Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) officials that they are mulling on recommending another extension of martial law in Mindanao.

They said the people’s will and the proximity of the 2019 elections are among the aspects being studied before coming up with a final recommendation.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier said he will first wait for the recommendations of the AFP and PNP before he decides whether to lift or ask Congress for another extension.

Duterte imposed martial law in the entire Mindanao on May 23, 2017 when the Islamic State-inspired Maute group laid siege on Marawi CIty.

As provided under the Constitution, the declaration should only last 60 days.

At Malacañang’s request, the declaration was extended until the end of 2017.

Duterte requested and was granted another extension by Congress — this time until Dec. 31, 2018.

In both cases, the requests for extension were immediately approved by Congress.