The City Government of Manila clarified Tuesday that a recently released ordinance that requires permits for events or activities in the city does not signify the implementation of “martial law” as alleged by its critics.
The LGU released a statement of clarification following social media posts claiming City Ordinance No. 8331 is akin to martial law.
“At no point does the memorandum introduce any form of military rule, curtail civil liberties, or impose undue restrictions on lawful assemblies beyond what is already provided under existing local legislation,” said the statement from Manila City Hall.
“Any claim to the contrary is an unfounded misinterpretation of its plain language and intent,” it added.
Under the ordinance, administrators are required to have special permits for events held within private establishments when such events fall outside the scope of the business permits issued to them.
With this, the City Government clarified that such assertions on implementing martial law are “completely false and deceptive”.
The LGU maintained the measure is neither new nor extraordinary and that it is a standard regulatory procedure designed to “ensure proper coordination, public safety, and compliance with local laws.”
“The City Government remains fully committed to upholding the constitutional rights of all individuals, including freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, while also ensuring that business operations and public activities are conducted in an orderly and lawful manner,” it added.
It also urged the public to be discerning of misinformation and to refer to official channels for accurate information. —Sherylin Untalan/RF, GMA Integrated News
