THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has not recommended the declaration of martial law because of the killings in Negros Oriental.
"There was no proposal from the AFP to declare martial law in Negros. We have sufficient forces on the ground, no need to add more," AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo said.
"But we can consult with the local chief executives and look at the situation on the ground and assess if there's a basis to it," he added.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) earlier said there is no recommendation from their end to put Negros Island under Martial Law.
"Ang sa amin naman ang binibigay natin sa presidente is what is actually happening. We don't recommend as of yet. Wala kaming sinasabi at wala naman kasing tinatanong 'yung ating presidente on our recommendations," PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde said.
A spate of killings within just 10 days this month claimed the lives of 17 people and caused fear among residents of Negros Oriental.
The fatalities included four policemen who were allegedly executed by members of the New People's Army (NPA) in Barangay Mabato, Ayungon town.
Albayalde has ordered the relief of Negros Oriental Police Provincial Director Raul Tacaca while an investigation is conducted into the killings. (VoxPop Philippines)