While the government does not see the need to evacuate the residents of Maguindanao, the government’s security forces are preparing for possible evacuation once the situation permits.

Brig. Gen. Gaudencio Pangilinan, chief of the Armed Forces' Civil Relations Service, rejected reports that residents of Maguindanao’s eight municipalities have been evacuated following the declaration of martial law last Friday night.

“It is not true that there is evacuation in eight municipalities. There are no IDPs (internally displaced persons). But, if there is a need, we are prepare to handle IDPs,” he said, during a press briefing.

Pangilinan also assured the public that members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) have been mobilized to ensure the safety of residents in the province.

He hinted that next week, the opening of the municipal halls is expected to ensure the delivery of services to the people.

Pangilinan also said that the government is in control of the situation and does not need to ask for international assistance.