WHEREAS , lawless elements have once again launched bomb attacks and recently exploded bombs in Regions 11 and 12, most recently in Davao City, resulting in the loss of innocent lives and destruction of property;

WHEREAS , such lawless elements continue to threaten and perpetrate acts of terrorism and lawless violence in open defiance of the duly constituted authorities;

WHEREAS , the existing situation necessitates an immediate and effective government response to avert further loss of innocent lives and destruction of property;

WHEREAS , whenever it becomes necessary, the President as the Commander-In-Chief of all the Armed Forces of the Philippines, may call out such armed forces to prevent or suppress lawless violence;

NOW, THEREFORE ,   I, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, by virtue of the powers vested upon me under Article VII, Section 18 of the Constitution as President of the Republic of the Philippines and Commander-In-Chief of all the Armed Forces of the Philippines, do hereby call upon the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to prevent and suppress acts of terrorism and lawless violence in Regions 11 and 12.

I hereby direct the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Chief of the Philippine National Police and the officers and men of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police, to immediately carry out the necessary and appropriate actions and measures to implement this General Order, with due regard to the constitutional rights of every individual.

City of Manila, April 3, 2003.

 

(Sgd.)   GLORIA MACAPAGAL ARROYO

By the President:

(SGD.) ALBERTO G. ROMULO
Executive Secretary