Mindanao’s Martial Law Extension: A Tough Stand Against Extremism
In a decisive move on December 12, the Philippine Congress handed the nation a 12‑month extension of martial law in the restive Mindanao region. The vote, tallying 235‑28 in favor, keeps military rule in place until the end of next year – a stretch that extends the country’s longest decree of martial law since the turbulent days of the 1970s under former dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
Why the Vote Digged In
President Rodrigo Duterte lobbied hard for the extension, arguing that the region remains a hotbed for Muslim extremism, and that tough security measures are essential to prevent the regrouping of hostile groups.
- Mindanao, particularly its poorer Muslim communities, has long wrestled with banditry, piracy, and armed rebellions.
- Separatist and communist militias have often been tamed through truces and decentralisation.
- Last May, the most intense conflict since World War II erupted: an ISIS‑aligned coalition seized Marawi City, sparking a five‑month battle of air strikes and ground offensives.
In an email to lawmakers, Duterte highlighted the reality that “Mindanao is in the midst of rebellion.” Meanwhile, his spokesman and the military assured Congress that civil liberties would be upheld, stressing the primary goal of preventing radical groups from expanding beyond Mindanao.
Opposition Voices and Calls for Change
Not everyone bought the extension. Opposing legislators contended that the rebellion had been subdued, rendering the extension unnecessary.
- Senator Franklin Drilon mused, “Is this the new normal?” during the session.
- Representative Edcel Lagman described the remaining ISIS allies in Mindanao as “quixotic and phantom fighters, unable to revive a ‘rebellion’ or spark a new one.”
With the decision in place, the focus now shifts to how the government will balance ongoing security efforts with protecting the rights and civil liberties of Mindanao’s residents.
