Soldiers man a checkpoint in the outskirts of Marawi in the southern Philippines where martial law has been declared after a terrorist attack on May 23. (Photo by Joe Torres)
A Catholic archbishop in Mindanao has welcomed a Supreme Court ruling upholding the legality of President Rodrigo Duterte's martial law declaration across the southern Philippines.
Archbishop Martin Jumoad of Ozamis said the court ruling is a "welcome decision," saying that military rule is the "ultimate instrument" to achieve peace in the south.
"I am happy with the decision. The majority of the people of Mindanao are happy," said the prelate, adding that he hopes "others will feel as one with us here in Mindanao."
"Truly we want peace, and martial law is the ultimate instrument to give us peace here in Mindanao," said Archbishop Jumoad.
Bishop Ruperto Santos of Balanga in the northern Philippines said the Supreme Court "handed down the right judgment on martial law."
"Serious matters call for serious measures," said the bishop, but added that martial law should only be imposed in Mindanao.
On July 4, the Philippine Supreme Court dismissed petitions questioning the legality of Duterte's proclamation of martial law in Mindanao.
The president declared martial law in the region following a terrorist attack by Islamic State-inspired gunmen in the city of Marawi on May 23.