President Duterte Pursue Offensive Actions In Marawi City, Military Says
The militaries clarified that President Rodrigo Duterte did not suspend the offensive actions of the military in Marawi City during his second SONA.
On May 23, 2017, Marawi City has been attacked by the Maute Terror Group and fought back the government forces, which severely affects its residents. The siege started after the government troops have raided the hideout of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon.
President Duterte also declared martial throughout the entire region of Mindanao Island due to the extended gun battle between the extremists and government forces. Currently, the authorities were making efforts to resolve the crisis in the besieged city.
On Wednesday (July 26, 2017), AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said that the president reminded them to be patients on ensuring the safety of 300 people who have been hostage by the terrorists in Marawi City.
“Itong kautusan po ng ating mahal na Pangulo ay isa pong precautionary guidance po na ibinigay sa ating mga tropa. Hindi po nangangahulugan na hihinto po ang operasyon natin sa Marawi,” said by Padilla quoted by ABS-CBN.
Padilla also said that Mr. Duterte reminds the military to be more careful on their operation so the hostages could be safely rescued from the hands of the militants similar to the guidelines released military chief Gen. Eduardo Año.
Last Monday (July 24, 2017), Duterte said that the 300 civilians held by the ISIS inspired group was the reason for the delayed operation because he was prioritizing the safety of the hostages.
Padilla also revealed that the Maute Group has indestructible houses and hidden bunkers, which enabled them to hold Marawi City for almost 3 months.
The lawmakers have already approved Duterte’s request to extend the martial law in Mindanao to resolve the current crisis in Marawi City.
What can you say about this? Just feel free to leave your comments and reactions for this article.
You can also read Viral: Claudine Barreto Rushed To Hospital, Brought Inside The Operating Room