Cebu Mayors Back President Duterte’s Declaration of ‘State of Lawlessness’

Cebu’s local chief executives have expressed support for President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of a state of lawless violence in the wake of the deadly blast on Friday in a Davao City night market that killed 14 persons and hurt at least 71 others.

They said they cannot call out the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to help the Philippine National Police (PNP) with law enforcement functions as only the President can do so.

Liloan Mayor Christina Garcia Frasco said that after the President’s declaration early Saturday morning, she has instructed the police to heighten their presence in public areas, set up more checkpoints, and intensify intelligence gathering, among others.

“We have a curfew ordinance that is already in place and for which I have instructed strict implementation since the start of my term,” Frasco said.

Tuburan Mayor Democrito “Aljun” Diamante said the declaration, which has a nationwide scope, emphasizes the mayors’ duty to maintain peace in their respective jurisdictions.

San Remigio Mayor Mariano Martinez said he will ask the police to coordinate with the provincial and regional PNP offices, and let him know how the town can support them.

“We continue to support the President in his drive against lawlessness and the drug menace,” said Pinamungajan Mayor Glenn Baricuatro.

Moalboal Mayor Inocentes Cabaron said the President, as commander-in-chief, must be supported in order to achieve peace.

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) 7 Director Rene Burdeos said the mayors can contribute a lot with the operational supervision they have over the police, as deputies of the National Police Commission (Napolcom). (PNA) LAP/EB/EDS