Liberal Party Press Conference on Martial Law

TRANSCRIPT OF PRESS CONFERENCE OF THE LIBERAL PARTY – December 2009

QUESTION AND ANSWER

Q: What will be the LP’s move to question the declaration?

NOYNOY: Merong constitutional mandate ito. And one of the safeguards so that we do not have a Martial Law perpetuated on us like in 1972 is that Congress has the ability to provide the check and the balance. So, Congress receives the declaration from the President of why Martial Law was imposed in the country or parts thereof. We review the factual basis then we decide on whether to continue with that imposition or to rescind it. And she cannot set that aside, she has to follow the dictates of Congress. That is the immediate step.

And of course, going to the Supreme Court is another avenue. Any citizen can (go) before the Supreme Court to determine the factual basis for the imposition. So it follows, if there is no factual basis, the imposition can be declared null and void.

Q: Are you in favor of the lifting of martial law?

NOYNOY: Specifically, we think that instead of being able to control the situation and restore peace and order, the imposition of martial law can lead to a worsening of the situation. And we want to emphasize this. Other crimes could be leveled against the accused. Those crimes would have resulted in the category called non-bailable. If it’s rebellion, it’s only the leaders who become non-bailable while the followers can be bailed out. And these are the people who might re-arm themselves and then engage again in terroristic acts. Then how do we handle this situation? So, ni-lessen mo yung crime na i-cha-charge. Ito ang main emphasis namin dito.

Full Transcript of Press Conference of the LIberal Party