Duterte says if he’ll declare martial law in Mindanao, he’ll make sure terrorism ends

March 13, 2017

President Rodrigo Duterte has renewed his warning of declaring martial law in Mindanao, which according to him will be the "defining moment" to end terrorism in the area.

In a speech Sunday night during the 35th anniversary of his political party, PDP-Laban, in Pasay City, Duterte said he will not hesitate "to use the extraordinary powers of the presidency" if slaughtering of innocent people, particularly the children, continues.

According to him, the warning is for Muslims and Christians.

"If I will declare martial law, it will be the defining moment of your foolishness in terrorism because I will see to it that the problem really ends," Duterte said.

Duterte noted that the government has jet planes, which are capable of operating even at  night.

"I am waiting for the precision-guided, it's a satellite guided (weapon). When I get it, I will pulverize them in the field, whether I destroy a forest or a plantation," Duterte said.

Duterte said if he could kill those involved in illegal drugs, he could do the same in fighting terrorism.

The government has been going after the local terrorist groups, such as the Abu Sayaff and Maute. The security forces are also facing the threats of the leftist New People's Army and other insurgent groups in the country. Celerina Monte/DMS