June 12, 2017 – Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella’s Statements

12 June 2017
From Presidential Spokesperson Ernie Abella – On the high noon salute to the heroes and innocent victims lost in Marawi
Today as the nation observes Independence Day we will pay homage to the fallen soldiers of Marawi.

The names of our brave soldiers who died fighting in Marawi City will be flashed on TV and read over the radio, with the sound of taps, at twelve noon as a tribute to their heroism for making the ultimate sacrifice for the flag and the country we dearly love.

We would likewise remember all the innocent victims who perished as a result of rebel atrocities committed.

We enjoin the public to honor these heroes and civilians and pray for them and the families they left behind.
From Presidential Spokesperson Ernie Abella – On PRRD statement that he did not ask for US assistance
The President has already made clear in his media interview in Cagayan de Oro that as the Commander-in-Chief he allowed the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to decide on matters pertaining to martial law.

General Order No 1, dated May 23, which implements the proclamation of martial law in the whole of Mindanao designated the Secretary of National Defense as the Martial Law Administrator and the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as the Martial Law Implementor. They can undertake all measures to prevent and suppress all acts of rebellion and lawless violence, including seeking technical assistance from the United States, within the limits prescribed by the Constitution.
From Presidential Spokesperson Ernie Abella – On martial law’s impact on tourism
We understand the concern of foreign tourists. Safety is on top of their minds.

As you would recall, travel advisories from different embassies have been issued after martial law was declared in the whole island of Mindanao. It is therefore expected that there are some tourists who opted to rebook to other destinations.

We remain optimistic that things would bounce back once the peace, order and normalcy have been restored in Marawi.