Netizens terrified or trusting of martial law in Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao on Tuesday, May 23, prompted by the attack of the Maute Group in Marawi City.

The announcement generated rapid-fire comments on social media, both negative and positive. This comes as no surprise, as martial law in the Philippines remains a hot-button topic after former dictator Ferdinand Marcos imposed it nationwide from 1972 to 1981.

Some netizens reacted to Duterte’s declaration with fear and indignation.

Mindanao is a huge place. Declaring martial law for the entire island group places countless civilians and innocents at risk of state abuse.

— Joshua Chen Young (@josh4everyoung) May 23, 2017

#Duterte‘s brand of justice: Vigilante Justice; his Rule of Law: Martial Law. He’s a signature away from becoming a full-fledged dictator!

— Francis B. Baraan (@MrFrankBaraan) May 14, 2017

Martial law was very traumatic to my Mom and her entire clan the last time it happened. This will bring back bad memories.

— metta alih anorsanas (@MettaAlih) May 23, 2017

Martial Law, revised or not, has NEVER been for the people.

— fr e sh a voca do (@caylfranco) May 23, 2017

A sudden announcement of Martial Law is triggering me. I’m scared to death. I don’t k ow how this thing happens please #PrayForTheWholeWorld

— infires.men (@unnieDarlene) May 23, 2017

Others, however, are cautiously in favor of the declaration.

Martial law would scare anyone in the Philippines. But I have put my trust in our President. I trust that he will not harm his homeland

— Juubin (@groweconomy_pls) May 23, 2017

Martial law was made for situations like these. Let’s just hope that this declaration will help diminish the situation in Marawi.

— Patricia (@_patriciaparas_) May 23, 2017

Pls lang. Martial Law is not a bad thing. This is a time of crisis.

— Julyanne Lomocso (@yanneeee) May 23, 2017

For the people who are deadass mad at Duterte about the Martial Law, PLEASE DO SHARE YOUR OWN WONDERFUL, MORE EFFECTIVE PLAN

— Brée  (@rubiabrianna) May 23, 2017

Not today, yellowtards. Martial law in Marawi is necessary and let’s give the old man credit for being proactive and agile. #PrayForMarawi

— Poulla Dulay (@Poullala) May 23, 2017

Guys. Martial Law is only problematic IF ABUSED. There is a crisis happening and we need to trust our government to do their job.

— Mel (@mamamelf) May 23, 2017

How do you feel about this latest declaration of martial law? Share your thoughts on publishing platform X! – Rappler.com