Section 1December 20, 1989, Sec./Art. 1

State of National Emergency. - On December 1, 1989, a rebellion committed by certain elements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines aided and abetted by civilians gave rise to an emergency of national proportions.

The emergency continues even with the cessation of military hostilities. More than 2,000 persons who participated in the failed coup, including the masterminds and plotters, are said to be still at large. There is a clear threat to national security posed by the rebels who have just "returned to their barracks," and the fence-sitters among the military. Bombings in Metropolitan Manila continue causing loss of lives, maiming of limbs and destruction of property.

On December 6, 1989, Proclamation No. 503 was issued by the President declaring a state of national emergency.

Meanwhile, secessionist elements in Mindanao, seeking to establish a common cause with rebels and their sympathizers, or taking advantage of the instability occasioned by the coup, are reported to have taken overt acts to dismember the country.

Communist rebels have taken advantage of the situation by attacking Government personnel and installations.

The economy has suffered and continues to suffer a serious setback, severely disrupting the momentum of our economic recovery.

A state of national emergency is hereby declared.