Maguindanao 'peaceful' after 1st day of martial law - Military

Other than the arrests of members of the Ampatuan clan linked to the November 23 massacre that killed 57 people, the first day of martial law over Maguindanao province was peaceful. But even as he made this claim Sunday, acting provincial police chief Senior Superintendent Bienvenido Latag, appealed to residents to remain calm while martial law is in effect. “The situation has been peaceful so far. We appeal to the citizens in Maguindanao to remain calm while police and military operations are ongoing," Latag said in an interview on dzXL radio. He also insisted there was no evacuation of residents in the province since martial law was imposed. “Wala kaming nakikitang lumikas sa area (We did not see anyone evacuate their homes)," he said. In a GMA News report Sunday Morning, Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, Eastern Command chief, was quoted by GMA’s Flash Report as saying that so far, no arbitrary arrests were made. “Hindi naman basta-basta mag-aaresto," Ferrer said. Shariff Aguak town is quiet, but the joint police and military operations searching Ampatuan residences for high-caliber weapons continue, he added. In a separate interview on dzXL Sunday morning, Col. Leo Ferrer, head of the Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade said, “Trade and commerce continues, di natin nire-restrict ang travel ng citizens (Trade and commerce continues. We did not restrict citizens’ travel)." Malacañang announced Saturday morning that President Arroyo had declared martial law over Maguindanao effective 9 p.m. Friday. While martial law was in effect over the province, Philippine security forces arrested members of the Ampatuan clan who were linked to the massacre. Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera also claimed a “looming rebellion" that had closed government offices in the province was another factor that prompted martial law. But, critics are suspicious of this move, saying it may be a way for President Arroyo to remain in power. “The joint congressional session to deliberate on the proclamation may be used as an opportunity for Cha-cha (Charter Change). Alam mo naman itong administrasyong ito, hangga’t mailulusot, lulusot (You know this administration, it will wriggle out in any way it could)," said Ramon Casiple, executive director of the Institute for Political and Electoral Reform in an interview with GMANews.TV Saturday night. CenterLaw chairperson Atty. Harry Roque cites Article VII, Section 18 of the 1987 Constitution in saying none of the grounds requiring martial law are existent. “The Constitution limits the ground (to declare martial law) to rebellion and invasion. None of these grounds are existent," said Roque in a text message to GMANews.TV - with Carmela Lapeña/LBG, GMANews.TV