Explanation of Vote of Senator Juan Miguel F. Zubiri
On the Resolution of Both Houses of Congress Approving the Extension of Martial Law Declaration in Mindanao until December 31, 2017

Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, I rise not just as a Senator of the Republic, but as a Senator representing Mindanao.

It is quite frustrating and disheartening that all the gains of economic development we've had in Mindanao these past few years had been shattered by these extremist terrorists who are out to destroy the very freedom that we are enjoying today. Even those protesters earlier who were shouting to the high heavens under the Terrorist Daesh Regime, would have been lined-up outside and immediately shot in the heads.

As a peace-loving Mindanaoan, I support our President's fight against these terrorists who know no creed, no religion, no law. The extension of Martial Law is necessary as the threat is still there, it is still present and once Marawi City is free from these terrorists, the harder part of rehabilitating and rebuilding begins. The builders could constantly be under threat by the terrorists similar to what happened in Iraq and Afghanistan who were constantly harassed by firefights and bombings.

Why the whole Mindanao? Saan nahuli ang ibang Maute Group? In Davao, Zamboanga, and Cagayan de Oro because the boundaries are so porous that we need to protect all our citizens from the spread of this disease of terrorism.

I vote yes, we from Mindanao vote yes for the extension of Martial Law to achieve our ultimate dream of long-lasting peace in Mindanao!