We have to engage our people and make them aware that it is precisely because of martial law that there is a seemingly peaceful environment that is prevalent now in Mindanao, thus, they have this perception of “tapos na ang giyera.”

Martial law allowed our defenders to keep the Daesh, their supporters, and remnants in check.  If martial law had not been implemented, the current situation in the communities in Mindanao would have been vastly different.

We therefore have to explain to our people that what the Daesh-Maute did in Marawi was just the tip of the iceberg.  The Dawlah Ismaliya remains determined to establish an IS wilayat in Mindanao.  With martial law in place, our defenders can establish a tighter net against these rebels and terrorists who will not stop until they are completely defeated.

In addition, martial law will also aid our defenders in securing Task Force Bangon Marawi agencies that are carrying out the rehabilitation of Marawi City.