MANILA—A US-based Filipino group is fully supporting President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s action declaring martial law in the whole Mindanao region in the wake of the wave of terror perpetrated by Islamist Maute terrorists.
“We salute and express our full support for our troops in their heroic role to fight and eradicate terrorism in Mindanao and elsewhere,” said Arnedo S. Valera, chairperson of the US Pinoys For Real Change in the Philippines (USPRCP), in a statement e-mailed to this reporter.
The USPRCP has its office in Washington, D.C.
Duterte imposed martial law in the entire Mindanao for 60 days on May 23 following the attacks by Maute group in Marawi City.
“President Duterte’s bold and decisive action is imperative in quelling the rebellion in the region, halting the escalating inhumane atrocities by the extremists, as well as insuring our national security and the safety of Filipinos, and demonstrating the government’s resolve in combating international terrorism,” Valera said.
USPRCP, is a nonpartisan organization composed of dual citizens, whose advocacy is for a better life for Filipinos everywhere,
Valera said: “We support President Rodrigo Duterte’s May 23 declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao for 60 days to quell the existing rebellion, insure the national security of our nation and the safety of our people, especially the civilian population, as well as combating international terrorism.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the heinous terrorist acts and unconscionable atrocities perpetrated by the extremist Maute terrorist groups and their cohorts, which resulted in the willful killing of three government troops, one from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and two from the Army. In wanton disregard of human lives, these extremists also attacked civilian facilities, including St. Mary’s Church, Dansalan College and Ninoy Aquino School.
“We call on all Filipinos and the international community to support the Philippine Government’s war against terrorism and extremist groups which target even non-combatants, the civilian population and cultural property, including places of worship in direct violation of the International Humanitarian Laws on armed conflicts.
“We urge the Mindanaoans to be vigilant and to extend their assistance to the Philippine troops through relaying vital information, taking into consideration their safety and that of their families as first priority in abiding by their patriotic duty. The civilian population is an important part of the government’s fight against terrorism.
“We pray for the families and children of our troops killed in defense and security of our country. Further, that they may find divine strength and spiritual blessings in these trying times. We call on the government and our community to extend all kinds of support to the families of our heroes, especially their children. And
“We salute and express our full support for our troops in their heroic role to fight and eradicate terrorism in Mindanao and elsewhere. This is the time to support our troops and our government to secure the national and territorial integrity of our nation and the safety and security of all Filipinos, as well as to demonstrate our resolve that international terrorism does not flourish.”