Palace: Martial law not an option for quarantine

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles clarified that imposing martial law is not an option for the Philippine government to maintain order during community quarantine periods.

Nograles stated that martial law is not being discussed by the administration and emphasized the government's resolve to prevent disruptions during the crisis.

President Rodrigo Duterte had previously threatened to order the arrest of quarantine protocol violators, but this is not a prelude to martial law.

Tensions had risen in Sitio San Roque, Quezon City, after residents gathered to request relief goods, leading to the arrest of 21 individuals.

Lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc condemned the arrests and demanded the immediate release of the arrested residents, with the Leftist group Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap (Kadamay) reportedly instigating the rally.