Atty. Glenn Chong explained that under the Constitution, the President as the Commander-in-Chief has the power to declare martial law in some parts or throughout the country if there are attacks or rebellion, as well as if there is a need to ensure the safety of the public, but it must not exceed beyond sixty (60) days.
“Ang pagsakop ng city hall, hospital, at city jail, at pagsunog ng ilang kabahayan sa Marawi City ng mga armadong Maute ayon sa mga opisyal ay aktwal na pag-aalsa ng armadong grupo laban sa gobyerno. Ito ay maaring basehan ng deklarasyon ng martial law sa Mindanao,” Atty Chong stated.
On the other side, Atty. Chong explained further that even if Mindanao is under the control of Martial Law, the power of Constitution will still be in effect and in existence in the said area. This means that the LGU, courts and government agencies will be in its normal operations. A case shall be filed to those who will be arrested due to assault in three (3) days and if not, they must be released from detainment.
“Sa loob ng 48 oras mula ng deklarasyon ng martial law, kailangang magsumite ang Pangulo ng report, personal o sa pamamagitan ng sulat, sa Kongreso. Ang Kongreso (Senado at Kamara), sa boto ng mayoriya, ay may kapangyarihang bawiin ang deklarasyon ng martial law. Kung babawiin ito ng Kongreso, hindi maaring ibalewala ng Pangulo ang pagbawi na ito,” Atty Chong added.
Attty. Chong also stated that on the President’s initiative and by the support of the Congress, the declaration of martial law may be extended beyond 60 days if the attack or rebellion continues and if necessary for the public’s safety.
On the other hand, Atty. Chong clarified that the Supreme Court may inspect the factual basis for the declaration of Martial Law if and only if there will be complaints filed on the Court. And the Court must be decided within thirty (days).
Sources: Glenn Chong
