By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Philippine Army 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, Brigadier General Benedict Arevalo, recently revealed some mayors in Negros Oriental want Martial Law declared in the province as a means of ending the recent violence.
The military official met with Negros Oriental first district Rep. Jocelyn Limkaichong and some mayors in the province to discuss the peace and order situation in the province.
Arevalo said, as of press time, he has not received any orders.
Additionally, he also said he has not asked for recommendations pertaining to the recent series of killings in Negros Oriental.
According to Arevalo, the local officials said whatever the government’s decision, if it is good for their respective jurisdictions, they will support.
“They welcomed any solutions that government wants to offer to ensure that they will be safe,” the military official noted.
“During our discussions, I said, as far as I’m concerned, I just heard it in media,” he added. “I have not received direct orders from my superiors and commanders if we prepare or plan or make recommendations for whatever purpose that is needed [with] higher headquarters.”
Arevalo also assured Limkaichong and the gathered local officials that government forces are “on top of situation.”
He then called for further support and cooperation from local chief executives.
“With or without Martial Law, the senseless killings should be stopped now,” Arevalo added./DGB, WDJ