Military studying situation in Negros Island

July 31, 2019

The Armed Forces of the Philipines (AFP) is studying the situation in Negros Oriental for possible declaration of martial law in the province, a military spokesman said Wednesday.

"There is no proposal from the AFP to declare martial law in Negros" said Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo in a statement.

"But we can consult with the local chief executives and look at the situation on the ground and assess if there's a basis to it," he added.

In a forum in San Juan City earlier, Arevalo said the military is studying the security situation in Negros Oriental amid the series of killings.

"We in the armed forces we are studying the situation, because we always use the situation on the ground as our basis and the recommendation of the local government chief executives. For now, we have not yet reached a consensus on that matter'', he said.

Arevalo said the military will support the police to end the killings.

"What we could assure is that the determination on the part of the security forces particularly to the PNP (Philippine National Police) and your (Armed Forces of the Philippines) AFP in assisting them to put a stop to these killings," he said.

"We have sufficient forces on the ground. No need to add more," Arevalo added.

Arevalo made his statement after the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan's chapter in Negros claimed the killings would be used as an excuse to declare martial law within the province. Robina Asido/DMS