WEB DESK
Legislators in Philippines have voted overwhelmingly to extend martial law to deal with Islamist insurgency in the restive island of Mindanao.
Militants linked to so-called Islamic State have been occupying parts of Marawi, a city in the south, since May. President Rodrigo Duterte said the extension was necessary to crush the insurgency. Mindanao is home to a number of Muslim rebel groups seeking more autonomy.
Martial law allows the use of the military to enforce law and the detention of people without charge for long periods. The extension means the law will now remain in force until 31st of December.