"President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has placed entire Mindanao under Martial Law as he vowed to end terrorism in the area from the recent attack by the so-called Isis-inspired Maute group in Marawi City. The terrorist group started occupying Marawi City on May 23, setting buildings on fire, holding captives and killing a number of civilians.  The declaration of Martial Law was made through Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella while the President was in Moscow. Abella said on Tuesday, ""(Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra) has clarified that this was possible on the grounds of existence of rebellion because of what is happening in Mindanao based on Article 7, Section 18 of the Constitution. This is good for 60 days.""  Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said that although the armed conflict only happens in Marawi City, there are also security issues happening in the nearby areas thus the President declares Martial Law for the entire Mindanao.  Lorenzana said, it includes control of movement, searches and arrest of detained people for suspension of writ of habeas corpus.  Suspension of the writ of habeas corpus means they can do arrests even in the absence of warrant to the suspects.  The Philippine National Police has released guidelines to be followed during the implementation of Martial Law in the entire Mindanao.     However, President duterte said he will not allow abuses during the Martial Law. He reiterated that his mandate as a president of the republic is to protect and to defend the country. He also said that he will declare curfew in certain areas like Lanao del Sur, Lanao Del Norte, Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato and Zamboanga to protect the civilians.     The areas under the Martial Law are as follows:  Zamboanga del Norte – Dipolog City Zamboanga del Sur – Pagadian City Zamboanga Sibugay – Ipil Bukidnon – Malaybalay City Camiguin – Mambajao Lanao del Norte- Tubod Misamis Occidental – Oroquieta City Misamis Oriental – Cagayan de Oro City Compostela Valley – Nabunturan Davao del Norte – Tagum City Davao del Sur – Digos City Davao Oriental – City of Mati Cotabato – Kidapawan City Sarangani – Alabel South Cotabato – Koronadal City Sultan Kudarat – Isulan Agusan del Norte – Cabadbaran City Agusan del Sur – Prosperidad Dinagat Islands – San Jose Surigao del Norte – Surigao City Surigao del Sur – Tandag City Basilan – Basilan Lanao del Sur – Marawi City Maguindanao – Sheriff Aguak/Maganoy Sulu – Jolo Tawi-Tawi Panglima Sugala/Balimbing  As private citizens without doing anything illegal, we should not fear the martial law for it is made made for our own protection.   Here are some pieces of advice you might consider:  1. Be a law abiding citizen. Respect the  authorities and follow directions and orders. 2. Have a survival kit stocked with food, medicine, water and other necessities. 3. Make yourself  extra aware of what is happening around you. A transistor radio will be handy to keep you updated. 4. If you see any suspicious people near you, call 911.  5. Do not panic as your government is doing anything within their means to protect our sovereignty.  6.PRAY! It is the best weapon we could ever have during these situation. Keep safe!"
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