In media interviews, Sen. Lacson answers questions on:
– security briefing at the Senate
– possible martial law extension in Mindanao
– proposed 2018 budget

Quotes from the interviews…

On security execs’ justification on martial law extension in Mindanao:
“On the basis of their explanation, I can speak for myself, I’m inclined to support if only to give the military that added boost sa campaign nila against terrorism or against rebellion sa Mindanao. In fact ngayon sinabi ko sa inyo kahapon di ba may mga bombardment at may depredations na nangyayari na kino-commit ng MILF. At may stragglers ng ISIS na nakalabas ng Marawi.”
“Sa mga legal points raised, kasi meron silang issue ng NPA, which was not originally included sa original declaration, sa proclamation noong May 23. So ngayon binabanggit nila as a source of threat kinukwestyon syempre ng mga senador. On the issue of ISIS at saka allies nila like the BIFF, mukhang may punto.”
“Kung include mo, ifa-factor mo ang NPA at tinitingnan mo may rebellion at may nire-require, if public safety so requires, kung ma-satisfy yan, panibagong declaration kasi pinasok mo bagong element, bagong consideration.”
“Ang danger na nakikita ko kasi sinama nila sa proclamation sa request ng president ang CPP-NPA. Now what will prevent the government or administration from declaring martial law in other areas outside of Mindanao?”
“Kung napayagan sa Mindanao baka ang ibang lugar na may clashes between the NPA guerrillas and AFP or members ng security forces natin bama maging daan din yan sa pagproklama ng martial law.”

On the bicameral meeting on the proposed 2018 budget:
“I cannot prevent the voting I’m just one voice here, but I will make an issue. If I’m not satisfied with the explanation I’ll vote against the ratification.”

On the DPWH’s holding of documents:
“It seems they are holding the documents even before I asked for them pero ayaw nila i-submit. Bakit? Yan ang gusto ko tanungin.”

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