MALACAÑANG on Sunday downplayed the travel advisories issued against the Philippines after the bombing in Davao last Saturday, noting these were standard procedures made by foreign countries to protect their citizens from harm.
Communications Secretary Martin M. Andanar said the travel advisories are normal responses of foreign governments against possible terrorist attacks. He assured that the Philippines continues to be a safe travel destination.
“It’s normal for these countries to issue their travel warning because it’s their responsibility to their own citizens. But the Armed Forces of the Philippines [AFP] and the Philippine National Police [PNP] have been on alert for the last few days. And life continues here in the Philippines; it’s still more fun here in the Philippines,” Andanar said.
“It’s just one place in the south where it happened. We know that it was a terrorist act done exactly to arrest our development here in the south. But it’s just one. The country has hundreds of islands, and you can choose from other cities and other municipalities and other spots in the Philippines where you can enjoy. It’s really up to the traveler where he wants to go. But we can assure them that they are safe,” he said.
Andanar also allayed fears that the declaration of the state of lawlessness throughout the Philippines is a prelude to a declaration of martial law.
“What I know is that the military is only being given authority to help the police in enforcing the Constitution and to ensure that there would be no lawlessness that would prevail. This is why the proclamation of a state of lawlessness involves the AFP to ensure the security of the country,” he said.
Palace Spokesman Ernesto C. Abella also allayed fears over a declaration of martial law, which can only be done in case of an invasion or a rebellion and when the public safety requires it, and asked the public to unite and cooperate in the government’s efforts to address threats of terrorism.
“In the spirit of unity and love of country, let us remain alert to the activities of those who wish to create chaos and prayerfully agree for peace to reign in the land. It takes a courageous and united people who complain less and do more to build the nation we dream of and deserve,” Abella said in a statement.
He cited Section 18 of Article VII of the Constitution as the legal basis for the declaration of the state of lawlessness, which provides: “The President shall be the Commander in Chief of all armed forces of the Philippines and whenever it becomes necessary, he may call out such armed forces to prevent or suppress lawless violence, invasion or rebellion.”
Malacañang said the presidential proclamation will be issued by Monday, at the latest, although the directive for the military to help in law enforcement is already effective as of the time the President called them out last Saturday in response to the bombing in Davao City.
Image credits: AP