SP seeks prosecutor for Martial Law cases

REQUEST --- Councilor Abdillah J. Lim, through a resolution, has requested President Duterte, through Defense Secretary Lorenzana, to assign a “special prosecutor” for Martial Law cases in Cotabato City. (GILMHAR A. LAO - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

COTABATO CITY --- The 15th Sangguniang Panlungsod of this city, in its 48th regular session last June 13, has requested in a resolution President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, through Secretary of National Defense Delfin N. Lorenzana, who is also the Martial Law administrator, to assign a “special prosecutor” for Martial Law cases in Cotabato City.

Councilor Abdillah J. Lim, who sponsored Resolution No. 6189, series of 2017,  forwarded his manifestations relative to the declaration of Martial Law and suspension of the Writ of Habeas Corpus in the whole of Mindanao whereby any suspect involving terroristic activities and rebellion can be searched and arrested without warrant.

Councilor Lim said that in spite of the declaration, the judicial process still functions particularly the right of any suspected individual to be given judicial proceedings.

“There were already persons apprehended in Cotabato City allegedly connected and supporters of the terrorist group. However, the court for Martial Law cases is located in Iligan City and it would be very risky for the city’s law enforcers and apprehended persons to be transported and tried in Lanao del Norte considering the peace and order situation in the Lanao area,” Councilor Lim said.

The motion of Abdillah J. Lim was seconded by Councilors Japal G. Guiani III, Jeanne Anne M. Zoilo, and Christina T. Chua.

“As it is hereby resolved, to request President Duterte through Secretary Lorenzana who is also the Martial Law Administrator, to assign a Special Prosecutor for Martial Law Cases in Cotabato City,” said Councilor Lim. (GILMHAR A. LAO - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)