From GMA News (Jun 20): ISIS-linked groups think Marawi is ‘strategic’ in plan to set up own province in Mindanao
Military intelligence point to Marawi's strategic location as reason for local terror groups to choose the Muslim-majority city as launch pad for attacks for the purpose of establishing an ISIS province in Mindanao.
Disclosing excerpts of the affidavit of Armed Forces chief General Eduardo Año, the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) told the Supreme Court (SC) that Marawi was a "strategic location due to its favorable terrain and accessibility to Northern and Central Mindanao."
"Military intelligence point to [Isnilon] Hapilon’s tactical intent of using Maguindanao and Cotabato as escape routes, supply line, and backdoor passage for reinforcements from other ISIS-linked rebel groups," the OSG said in its memorandum.
"These would have aided them in gaining control over and consolidating not just Marawi City, but a larger part of the Mindanao region. Moreover, the rebel groups have established contacts inside the city who are providing them with logistical and financial support," it added.
According to the military, the rebels led by the Maute group had intended to raze the entire city of Marawi, the capital of Lanao Del Sur province, on the day of Ramadan or on May 26.
"They said attack would have served as the precursor for other rebel groups to stage their own uprisings across Mindanao in a bid to simultaneously establish a wilayah [province] in the region," the OSG said.
However, the government said the planned attack was foiled when soldiers attempted to arrest Hapilon for various cases, forcing the ISIS-linked local rebel groups to prematurely execute the attack.
The SC is looking into the issue whether there is sufficient factual basis for President Rodrigo Duterte's declaration of martial law in Mindanao on the ground of rebellion, which the petitioners said did not exist.
The petitioners even pointed out that terrorism does not equate to rebellion, noting the attacks on Marawi City stemmed from an armed resistance by the Maute group to shield Hapilon from capture.
Solicitor General Jose Calida refuted this claim, saying the joint police and military operation "actually pre-empted and foiled the plan of the terrorists to burn down the city of Marawi and establish a wilayah (ISIS province)."
The government said martial law was necessary to quell rebellion since ISIS-inspired local rebel groups have taken arms against the Philippine government to remove Mindanao from the republic and to deprive Duterte of his powers and prerogatives.
In asking the high court to uphold Proclamation No. 216, Calida said the SC can take judicial notice of the fact that the occupation of Marawi by armed groups has been ongoing for almost a month now.
"This alone is proof enough that the goal of these lawless elements is not merely to sow fear and panic to the populace, but to actually establish a stronghold in the Mindanao region and deprive duly-constituted authorities of their powers and prerogatives therein," he said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/615174/isis-linked-groups-think-marawi-is-strategic-in-plan-to-set-up-own-province-in-mindanao/story/
Tuesday, June 20, 2017
Philippines Launches Offensive in Marawi With Aim to End Battle By Weekend
Posted to The Wire (Jun 20): Philippines Launches Offensive in Marawi With Aim to End Battle By Weekend
Debris and fire is seen after an OV-10 Bronco aircraft released a bomb, during an airstrike, as government forces continue their assault against insurgents from the Maute group, who have taken over large parts of Marawi City, Philippines June 19, 2017. Credit: Reuters/Romeo Ranoco
Marawi City, Philippines: Philippine aircraft bombed rebel positions and ground troops launched a renewed push against Islamist militants holed up in a southern city on Tuesday, and a military spokesman said the aim was to wrap up the fighting before the weekend Eid festival.
The offensive came amid worry that rebel reinforcements could arrive after Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
Fighting in Marawi City has entered a fifth week, and nearly 350 people have been killed, according to an official count. Fleeing residents have said they have seen scores of bodies in the debris of homes destroyed in bombing and crossfire.
“We are aiming to clear Marawi by the end of Ramadan,” said military spokesman Brigadier-General Restituto Padilla, as army and police commanders met in nearby Cagayan de Oro city to reassess strategy and operations against the militants, who claim allegiance to ISIS.
“We cannot definitely say when we could end this because we are fighting door to door and there are booby traps which pose danger to our troops.”
The seizure of Marawi has alarmed Southeast Asian nations which fear ISIS – on a backfoot in Iraq and Syria – is trying to set up a stronghold in the southern Philippines that could threaten the whole region.
Padilla said the military aimed to prevent the conflict from escalating after Ramadan ends.
“We are closely watching certain groups and we hope they will not join the fight,” Padilla said.
Some Muslim residents of Marawi said other groups could join the fighting after Ramadan.
“As devout Muslims, we are forbidden to fight during Ramadan so afterwards, there may be new groups coming in,” said Faisal Amir, who has stayed on in the city despite the battle.
Fighting was intense early on Tuesday as security forces made a push to drive the militants, entrenched in Marawi‘s commercial district, south towards a lake on the edge of the city.
Planes flew overhead, dropping bombs while on the ground, automatic gunfire was sustained with occasional blasts from bombs and artillery. Armoured vehicles fired volleys of shells while the militants responded with gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades.
Fighting later died down as heavy rain fell.
An army corporal near the front line told Reuters soldiers were tagging houses and buildings that had been cleared.
“We still have to clear more than 1,000 structures,” he said, adding infantry units were left behind at “cleared” areas to prevent militants from recapturing ground they have lost.
As of Monday, the military said 257 militants, 62 soldiers and 26 civilians had been killed. Hundreds of people are unaccounted for, believed to be hiding in the basements of the city. (Reuters)
https://thewire.in/149355/philippines-turns-offensive-isis-end-fighting-eid/
Debris and fire is seen after an OV-10 Bronco aircraft released a bomb, during an airstrike, as government forces continue their assault against insurgents from the Maute group, who have taken over large parts of Marawi City, Philippines June 19, 2017. Credit: Reuters/Romeo Ranoco
Marawi City, Philippines: Philippine aircraft bombed rebel positions and ground troops launched a renewed push against Islamist militants holed up in a southern city on Tuesday, and a military spokesman said the aim was to wrap up the fighting before the weekend Eid festival.
The offensive came amid worry that rebel reinforcements could arrive after Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
Fighting in Marawi City has entered a fifth week, and nearly 350 people have been killed, according to an official count. Fleeing residents have said they have seen scores of bodies in the debris of homes destroyed in bombing and crossfire.
“We are aiming to clear Marawi by the end of Ramadan,” said military spokesman Brigadier-General Restituto Padilla, as army and police commanders met in nearby Cagayan de Oro city to reassess strategy and operations against the militants, who claim allegiance to ISIS.
“We cannot definitely say when we could end this because we are fighting door to door and there are booby traps which pose danger to our troops.”
The seizure of Marawi has alarmed Southeast Asian nations which fear ISIS – on a backfoot in Iraq and Syria – is trying to set up a stronghold in the southern Philippines that could threaten the whole region.
Padilla said the military aimed to prevent the conflict from escalating after Ramadan ends.
“We are closely watching certain groups and we hope they will not join the fight,” Padilla said.
Some Muslim residents of Marawi said other groups could join the fighting after Ramadan.
“As devout Muslims, we are forbidden to fight during Ramadan so afterwards, there may be new groups coming in,” said Faisal Amir, who has stayed on in the city despite the battle.
Fighting was intense early on Tuesday as security forces made a push to drive the militants, entrenched in Marawi‘s commercial district, south towards a lake on the edge of the city.
Planes flew overhead, dropping bombs while on the ground, automatic gunfire was sustained with occasional blasts from bombs and artillery. Armoured vehicles fired volleys of shells while the militants responded with gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades.
Fighting later died down as heavy rain fell.
An army corporal near the front line told Reuters soldiers were tagging houses and buildings that had been cleared.
“We still have to clear more than 1,000 structures,” he said, adding infantry units were left behind at “cleared” areas to prevent militants from recapturing ground they have lost.
As of Monday, the military said 257 militants, 62 soldiers and 26 civilians had been killed. Hundreds of people are unaccounted for, believed to be hiding in the basements of the city. (Reuters)
https://thewire.in/149355/philippines-turns-offensive-isis-end-fighting-eid/
Expanded US role in Marawi unlikely – Palace (Photo)
From InterAksyon (Jun 20): Expanded US role in Marawi unlikely – Palace
A US special forces soldier with a surveillance drone inside Camp Ranao in Marawi City in a photo obtained by News5.
The government has no plans of expanding the role of the US in the continuing campaign to rid Marawi City of extremist gunmen, Malacañang said Tuesday.
At the same time, the Palace allayed fears expressed by some US senators that Marawi could become the next stronghold of the Islamic State, to which the Maute, Abu Sayyaf and a number of other local extremist groups have sworn allegiance.
“It’s unlikely for Marawi to become a new hub for IS fighters,” presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said. “The Philippine military has already pre-empted the Maute group from establishing a wilayat or province in Marawi so the role of US … is to provide technical assistance as prescribed by the Constitution and we will abide by that.”
At the same time, Abella said the US forces’ presence in Marawi does not mean Duterte has changed his mind about not wanting foreign troops on Philippine soil, only that “he’s accepted the situation at this stage.”
Earlier, the US embassy in Manila said the Philippines had requested the assistance.
“There is no direct US participation in combat, which is prohibited by Philippine law, although our forces involved in training the Philippine military are authorized to defend themselves,” a US official told Reuters earlier.
After the military confirmed the American help, Duterte said he was “not aware of that.”
A US special forces soldier with a surveillance drone inside Camp Ranao in Marawi City in a photo obtained by News5.
The government has no plans of expanding the role of the US in the continuing campaign to rid Marawi City of extremist gunmen, Malacañang said Tuesday.
At the same time, the Palace allayed fears expressed by some US senators that Marawi could become the next stronghold of the Islamic State, to which the Maute, Abu Sayyaf and a number of other local extremist groups have sworn allegiance.
“It’s unlikely for Marawi to become a new hub for IS fighters,” presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said. “The Philippine military has already pre-empted the Maute group from establishing a wilayat or province in Marawi so the role of US … is to provide technical assistance as prescribed by the Constitution and we will abide by that.”
At the same time, Abella said the US forces’ presence in Marawi does not mean Duterte has changed his mind about not wanting foreign troops on Philippine soil, only that “he’s accepted the situation at this stage.”
Earlier, the US embassy in Manila said the Philippines had requested the assistance.
“There is no direct US participation in combat, which is prohibited by Philippine law, although our forces involved in training the Philippine military are authorized to defend themselves,” a US official told Reuters earlier.
After the military confirmed the American help, Duterte said he was “not aware of that.”
Davao City’s anti-ISIS ordinance gains headway
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 20): Davao City’s anti-ISIS ordinance gains headway
The City’s anti ISIS ordinance is expected to be passed by the Sangguniang Panglungsod (City Council) of Davao City this according to Vice-Mayor Paolo Duterte.
“Gamay nalang fine-tuning, naa na sa committee ni Councilor Abellera fine-tuning nalang ang ginabuhat para sa legalidad niya. ( A little fine-tuning, it is in the committee of Councilor Abellara, fine-tuning is being done for its legalities). The Vice –Mayor said.
Duterte said the most is two to three weeks for the proposed ordinance to be passed and approved in the second reading. It is currently being fine-tuned in the committee of peace and public safety headed by Councilor Nilo Abellera Jr.
The vice-mayor said they wanted the legality of the ordinance to be fine-tuned to prevent it from being questioned as he said you cannot prevent someone from pursuing one’s beliefs.
He said the spirit of the law is to prevent people from supporting the causes of terrorism particularly ISIS.
The proposed ordinance is titled “An ordinance punishing the act of recruiting and membership to ISIS and to their allied terrorist groups including those professing support thereto, manufacture and distribution of propaganda materials and failure to report ISIS related activities to law enforcement agencies.”
The penalty of P5,000 fine and an imprisonment of one year is being added to give teeth to the law.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1541497942546/davao-city-s-anti-isis-ordinance-gains-headway
The City’s anti ISIS ordinance is expected to be passed by the Sangguniang Panglungsod (City Council) of Davao City this according to Vice-Mayor Paolo Duterte.
“Gamay nalang fine-tuning, naa na sa committee ni Councilor Abellera fine-tuning nalang ang ginabuhat para sa legalidad niya. ( A little fine-tuning, it is in the committee of Councilor Abellara, fine-tuning is being done for its legalities). The Vice –Mayor said.
Duterte said the most is two to three weeks for the proposed ordinance to be passed and approved in the second reading. It is currently being fine-tuned in the committee of peace and public safety headed by Councilor Nilo Abellera Jr.
The vice-mayor said they wanted the legality of the ordinance to be fine-tuned to prevent it from being questioned as he said you cannot prevent someone from pursuing one’s beliefs.
He said the spirit of the law is to prevent people from supporting the causes of terrorism particularly ISIS.
The proposed ordinance is titled “An ordinance punishing the act of recruiting and membership to ISIS and to their allied terrorist groups including those professing support thereto, manufacture and distribution of propaganda materials and failure to report ISIS related activities to law enforcement agencies.”
The penalty of P5,000 fine and an imprisonment of one year is being added to give teeth to the law.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1541497942546/davao-city-s-anti-isis-ordinance-gains-headway
US, PH Naval forces to strengthen alliance at the 'Maritime Training Activity Sama Sama'
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 20): US, PH Naval forces to strengthen alliance at the 'Maritime Training Activity Sama Sama'
The U.S. and Philippine navies will participate in the Maritime Training Activity "Sama Sama" on 19-25 June 2017 in the vicinity of Cebu.
Maritime Training Activity Sama Sama is designed to enhance the complexity and diversity of training opportunities, while strengthening the longstanding alliance between the U.S. and the Republic of the Philippines.
The exercise will focus on mutual security concerns that affect the Philippines including piracy and sea smuggling, maritime domain awareness and patrol, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness.
"The training we will perform over the next week will provide excellent opportunities to deepen our long-time maritime partnership with the Philippine Navy," said Rear Adm. Don Gabrielson, commander, Task Force 73. "We thank the Philippine Navy and the people of the Philippines for being gracious hosts and we look forward to enhancing our professional ties in meaningful ways that benefit both nations."
The Tagalog phrase “Sama Sama” or “together” is the central theme of the training both at sea and ashore. The exercise provides valuable opportunities for both navies to learn and operate together at sea and foster professional dialogue during subject matter expert exchanges.
"We are honored to work with the U.S. Navy during this Maritime Training Activity Sama Sama," said Commodore Loumer P. Bernabe, Armed Forces of the Philippines. "Our training together will strengthen our relationships at the operator level and will also strengthen our alliance and partnership in maritime cooperation."
"Maritime Training Activity Sama Sama is an ideal framework to strengthen our relationship with our partners in the Philippine Navy and to enhance readiness through training and evolutions ashore and at sea," said Capt. Alexis Walker, commodore, Destroyer Squadron 7. "With more than 20 years of experience working together, we are able to plan and execute exercises like the Maritime Training Activity that address shared maritime security priorities and enhance interoperability between our two navies.”
The U.S. and the Philippines continue to work together on a number of initiatives and conduct regular personnel exchanges through routine participation in bilateral and multilateral exercises such as Balikatan, Southeast Asian Cooperation and Training (SEACAT), the Rim of the Pacific exercise (RIMPAC), the Asian Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM-Plus), and many other bilateral subject matter expert exchanges.
U.S. assets participating in this year’s exercise include the littoral combat ship USS Coronado (LCS 4) and the expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Millinocket (T-EPF-3) along with a P-8 Poseidon aircraft. Marines assigned to the III Marine Expeditionary Force, Navy Seabees, and staff from Commander, Task Force 73 and Destroyer Squadron 7 will also participate.
The Philippine Navy units will include the Del Pilar Class Frigate BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PF-15), BRP Agta, an AW109 helicopter, and a BN-2 Islander aircraft. A Philippine Marine company and other naval staff will also join the exercise.
As U.S. 7th Fleet's executive agent for theater security cooperation in South and Southeast Asia, Commander, Task Force 73 conducts advanced planning, organizes resources, and directly supports the execution of maritime exercises, such as Pacific Partnership, the Naval Engagement Activity (NEA) with Vietnam, and the multi-lateral Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training (SEACAT) with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131497881806/us-ph-naval-forces-to-strengthen-alliance-at-the-maritime-training-activity-sama-sama-
The U.S. and Philippine navies will participate in the Maritime Training Activity "Sama Sama" on 19-25 June 2017 in the vicinity of Cebu.
Maritime Training Activity Sama Sama is designed to enhance the complexity and diversity of training opportunities, while strengthening the longstanding alliance between the U.S. and the Republic of the Philippines.
The exercise will focus on mutual security concerns that affect the Philippines including piracy and sea smuggling, maritime domain awareness and patrol, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness.
"The training we will perform over the next week will provide excellent opportunities to deepen our long-time maritime partnership with the Philippine Navy," said Rear Adm. Don Gabrielson, commander, Task Force 73. "We thank the Philippine Navy and the people of the Philippines for being gracious hosts and we look forward to enhancing our professional ties in meaningful ways that benefit both nations."
The Tagalog phrase “Sama Sama” or “together” is the central theme of the training both at sea and ashore. The exercise provides valuable opportunities for both navies to learn and operate together at sea and foster professional dialogue during subject matter expert exchanges.
"We are honored to work with the U.S. Navy during this Maritime Training Activity Sama Sama," said Commodore Loumer P. Bernabe, Armed Forces of the Philippines. "Our training together will strengthen our relationships at the operator level and will also strengthen our alliance and partnership in maritime cooperation."
"Maritime Training Activity Sama Sama is an ideal framework to strengthen our relationship with our partners in the Philippine Navy and to enhance readiness through training and evolutions ashore and at sea," said Capt. Alexis Walker, commodore, Destroyer Squadron 7. "With more than 20 years of experience working together, we are able to plan and execute exercises like the Maritime Training Activity that address shared maritime security priorities and enhance interoperability between our two navies.”
The U.S. and the Philippines continue to work together on a number of initiatives and conduct regular personnel exchanges through routine participation in bilateral and multilateral exercises such as Balikatan, Southeast Asian Cooperation and Training (SEACAT), the Rim of the Pacific exercise (RIMPAC), the Asian Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM-Plus), and many other bilateral subject matter expert exchanges.
U.S. assets participating in this year’s exercise include the littoral combat ship USS Coronado (LCS 4) and the expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Millinocket (T-EPF-3) along with a P-8 Poseidon aircraft. Marines assigned to the III Marine Expeditionary Force, Navy Seabees, and staff from Commander, Task Force 73 and Destroyer Squadron 7 will also participate.
The Philippine Navy units will include the Del Pilar Class Frigate BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PF-15), BRP Agta, an AW109 helicopter, and a BN-2 Islander aircraft. A Philippine Marine company and other naval staff will also join the exercise.
As U.S. 7th Fleet's executive agent for theater security cooperation in South and Southeast Asia, Commander, Task Force 73 conducts advanced planning, organizes resources, and directly supports the execution of maritime exercises, such as Pacific Partnership, the Naval Engagement Activity (NEA) with Vietnam, and the multi-lateral Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training (SEACAT) with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131497881806/us-ph-naval-forces-to-strengthen-alliance-at-the-maritime-training-activity-sama-sama-
Marawi readies for rehab, peace-building efforts
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 20): Marawi readies for rehab, peace-building efforts
While the clearing operations against the Maute terror group are going on in Marawi City, a rehabilitation plan is now readied by the city government.
The rehabilitation plan of Marawi City includes prevention and mitigation measures against lawlessness coupled with peace-building efforts, Mayor Majui U. Gandamra said in an inter-agency meeting held Monday, June 19, at the Mahogany Hills in Barangay Pala-o this city.
“Given the magnitude of the damage, we will need your continued support to let Marawi City rise again better and stronger,” Mayor Gandamra appealed to the government agencies present in said meeting.
The damage wrought by the siege to properties and infrastructures has already reached more than P300 million, the mayor reported.
Gandamra also cited displacement, loss of livelihood and educational opportunities, damage to properties, health and environmental hazards, trauma, divide and renewal of mistrust as among the adverse effects of the Marawi crisis on the residents.
To date, the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) has reported that 69,296 families or 338,536 persons have been displaced by the armed conflict in Marawi City. Three thousand seven hundred forty seven families or 17,724 persons are housed in 83 evacuation centers while 60,785 families with 296,972 dependents are home-based as tracked from seven regions.
In a related development, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is arriving here today, June 20, to lead the distribution of the P1,000 cash as food emergency financial assistance to families living in the evacuation centers.
According to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), “the beneficiaries are those validated internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Marawi City as of June 15.”
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1431497883673/marawi-readies-for-rehab-peace-building-efforts-
While the clearing operations against the Maute terror group are going on in Marawi City, a rehabilitation plan is now readied by the city government.
The rehabilitation plan of Marawi City includes prevention and mitigation measures against lawlessness coupled with peace-building efforts, Mayor Majui U. Gandamra said in an inter-agency meeting held Monday, June 19, at the Mahogany Hills in Barangay Pala-o this city.
“Given the magnitude of the damage, we will need your continued support to let Marawi City rise again better and stronger,” Mayor Gandamra appealed to the government agencies present in said meeting.
The damage wrought by the siege to properties and infrastructures has already reached more than P300 million, the mayor reported.
Gandamra also cited displacement, loss of livelihood and educational opportunities, damage to properties, health and environmental hazards, trauma, divide and renewal of mistrust as among the adverse effects of the Marawi crisis on the residents.
To date, the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) has reported that 69,296 families or 338,536 persons have been displaced by the armed conflict in Marawi City. Three thousand seven hundred forty seven families or 17,724 persons are housed in 83 evacuation centers while 60,785 families with 296,972 dependents are home-based as tracked from seven regions.
In a related development, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is arriving here today, June 20, to lead the distribution of the P1,000 cash as food emergency financial assistance to families living in the evacuation centers.
According to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), “the beneficiaries are those validated internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Marawi City as of June 15.”
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1431497883673/marawi-readies-for-rehab-peace-building-efforts-
Government forces seize shabu, firearms in Marawi City, gear towards city’s rehab
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 20): Government forces seize shabu, firearms in Marawi City, gear towards city’s rehab
Government forces recovered illegal drugs as well as cache of high-powered firearms over the weekend in Marawi City, a Palace official said on Monday, June 19.
During the regular Mindanao Hour press briefing in Malacañang, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said eleven kilos of suspected metamphetamine hydrochloride also known as shabu was recovered by troops after a brief firefight with Maute militants at 6 p.m. on Sunday.
The confiscation of the illegal substance is one of the significant developments by the Joint Task Force Marawi in the ongoing clearing operations in besieged city.
Armed Forces of the Philippines Spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla Jr., who joined Abella at the press briefing, said soldiers also seized more than 20 high-powered firearms last Saturday in Marawi City.
“So you may not be aware of the nature of the confiscated firearms. These are among the firearms that have been confiscated and they are not ordinary firearms at all but high-powered firearms that can fire from afar, hit targets and destroy them,” Padilla said.
“This is indicative of the length of planning that went to this operation of these rebels, when they were able to get this number of firearms and bring it to the area of operations over a period of time," he added.
Other war materials that have been confiscated are improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other explosives.
According to Abella, the AFP is prepared to embark on other key tasks such as rehabilitation and reconstruction of Marawi City once it is cleared of the terrorists.
“It has already prepared the Combat Engineering Brigades [from] the Army and the Navy for immediate deployment as soon as the clearing operations are [completed],” he said of AFP’s preparations.
In the meantime, however, he said the focus remains on combat, intelligence, and civil military operations.
The government troops have so far rescued 1,637 civilians, recovered 250 firearms and killed 257 terrorists, Abella reported adding that the Maute’s resistance "continues to wane".
At least 62 soldiers have been killed while thousands of people have been displaced since the siege started last month.
In response to people expressing desire to help families of troops killed-in-action and internally displaced persons, the government set up two separate bank accounts under Landbank where concerned people could deposit money.
For families of slain soldiers, they can deposit money to AFP Marawi Casualty with account number 00000552107128.
For evacuees from Marawi City, people can send money to Marawi IDP with account number 00000552107136.
Band together in fight vs terrorism
Meanwhile, Padilla reiterated his call to the public to support the government in fighting terrorism describing the enemy as “a different breed.”
He said the presence of foreign fighters in Mindanao is part of a continuing concern because they bring something different than from that of home-grown terrorists.
“But if we do not work as a nation and band together to fight it, the threat might increase," he said.
He added that if Filipinos work together as one nation, it will be harder for the extremists to rule and the government could easily root them out. (PND)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131497884261/government-forces-seize-shabu-firearms-in-marawi-city-gear-towards-city-s-rehab
Government forces recovered illegal drugs as well as cache of high-powered firearms over the weekend in Marawi City, a Palace official said on Monday, June 19.
During the regular Mindanao Hour press briefing in Malacañang, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said eleven kilos of suspected metamphetamine hydrochloride also known as shabu was recovered by troops after a brief firefight with Maute militants at 6 p.m. on Sunday.
The confiscation of the illegal substance is one of the significant developments by the Joint Task Force Marawi in the ongoing clearing operations in besieged city.
Armed Forces of the Philippines Spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla Jr., who joined Abella at the press briefing, said soldiers also seized more than 20 high-powered firearms last Saturday in Marawi City.
“So you may not be aware of the nature of the confiscated firearms. These are among the firearms that have been confiscated and they are not ordinary firearms at all but high-powered firearms that can fire from afar, hit targets and destroy them,” Padilla said.
“This is indicative of the length of planning that went to this operation of these rebels, when they were able to get this number of firearms and bring it to the area of operations over a period of time," he added.
Other war materials that have been confiscated are improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other explosives.
According to Abella, the AFP is prepared to embark on other key tasks such as rehabilitation and reconstruction of Marawi City once it is cleared of the terrorists.
“It has already prepared the Combat Engineering Brigades [from] the Army and the Navy for immediate deployment as soon as the clearing operations are [completed],” he said of AFP’s preparations.
In the meantime, however, he said the focus remains on combat, intelligence, and civil military operations.
The government troops have so far rescued 1,637 civilians, recovered 250 firearms and killed 257 terrorists, Abella reported adding that the Maute’s resistance "continues to wane".
At least 62 soldiers have been killed while thousands of people have been displaced since the siege started last month.
In response to people expressing desire to help families of troops killed-in-action and internally displaced persons, the government set up two separate bank accounts under Landbank where concerned people could deposit money.
For families of slain soldiers, they can deposit money to AFP Marawi Casualty with account number 00000552107128.
For evacuees from Marawi City, people can send money to Marawi IDP with account number 00000552107136.
Band together in fight vs terrorism
Meanwhile, Padilla reiterated his call to the public to support the government in fighting terrorism describing the enemy as “a different breed.”
He said the presence of foreign fighters in Mindanao is part of a continuing concern because they bring something different than from that of home-grown terrorists.
“But if we do not work as a nation and band together to fight it, the threat might increase," he said.
He added that if Filipinos work together as one nation, it will be harder for the extremists to rule and the government could easily root them out. (PND)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131497884261/government-forces-seize-shabu-firearms-in-marawi-city-gear-towards-city-s-rehab
Aklan police units urged to remain on terror alert
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20): Aklan police units urged to remain on terror alert
Police units in 17 towns in Aklan as well in Boracay were ordered to remain on full alert status following the recent raid by members of the New People’s Army (NPA) on a police station in Iloilo province.
Senior Supt. Lope Manlapaz, acting Aklan police director, said though the province was declared insurgency-free, the incident prompted increase security.
Manlapaz said it was necessary to take precautionary measures.
He said the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) had been coordinating with the members of the Philippine Army to prevent the entry of any rebel group and terrorist in the province.
NPA rebels raided the Maasin Police Station in Iloilo on broad daylight on June 18.
Meanwhile, the Manlapaz stressed the need of cooperation of the public in preventing any terror attacks.
He urged the public to report any suspicious people in their area especially with a number of refugees from the besieged Marawi City coming to the province.
Likewise, as part of its information dissemination campaign, the APPO has already installed signage with faces and identities of the Maute groups in Marawi in different areas in the province, including ports to and from Boracay.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/996431
Police units in 17 towns in Aklan as well in Boracay were ordered to remain on full alert status following the recent raid by members of the New People’s Army (NPA) on a police station in Iloilo province.
Senior Supt. Lope Manlapaz, acting Aklan police director, said though the province was declared insurgency-free, the incident prompted increase security.
Manlapaz said it was necessary to take precautionary measures.
He said the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) had been coordinating with the members of the Philippine Army to prevent the entry of any rebel group and terrorist in the province.
NPA rebels raided the Maasin Police Station in Iloilo on broad daylight on June 18.
Meanwhile, the Manlapaz stressed the need of cooperation of the public in preventing any terror attacks.
He urged the public to report any suspicious people in their area especially with a number of refugees from the besieged Marawi City coming to the province.
Likewise, as part of its information dissemination campaign, the APPO has already installed signage with faces and identities of the Maute groups in Marawi in different areas in the province, including ports to and from Boracay.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/996431
Duterte to rebel IPs: Yield arms, join AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20): Duterte to rebel IPs: Yield arms, join AFP
President Rodrigo Duterte has called on tribal militiamen affiliated with the communist rebel movement to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law.
“They should stop fighting (against the government). For as long as they shoot and talk, they will remain neglected as it will be hard for the government agencies concerned to reach their respective localities,” President Duterte said, referring to New People’s Army (NPA) fighters belonging to Indigenous People’s groups in Caraga Region.
Duterte made the appeal in a speech as guest of honor and speaker during the 50th anniversary of Agusan del Sur in Cabadbaran City over the weekend.
The President noted that a sizable portion of the NPA cadres in Caraga belong to the lumads (IPs), adding that IP groups are being lured into the rebel movement because of poverty and lack of opportunities in rural areas.
Duterte noted the absence of able-bodied men in his numerous visits to IP communities in Mindanao, particularly in Caraga Region, saying “most of the dwellers there are women and children.”
Calling on the tribal militiamen within the NPA ranks to “lay down their arms,” the President also urge them to avail of the “plenty of services” offered by the government under his administration.
Those who wish to serve in the Armed Forces, he added, may train and be “integrated into the military service.”
After the speech in Cabadbaran City, the President proceeded to military’s Camp Bancasi, this city to talk to the troops and presided the giving of military honors.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/996445
President Rodrigo Duterte has called on tribal militiamen affiliated with the communist rebel movement to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law.
“They should stop fighting (against the government). For as long as they shoot and talk, they will remain neglected as it will be hard for the government agencies concerned to reach their respective localities,” President Duterte said, referring to New People’s Army (NPA) fighters belonging to Indigenous People’s groups in Caraga Region.
Duterte made the appeal in a speech as guest of honor and speaker during the 50th anniversary of Agusan del Sur in Cabadbaran City over the weekend.
The President noted that a sizable portion of the NPA cadres in Caraga belong to the lumads (IPs), adding that IP groups are being lured into the rebel movement because of poverty and lack of opportunities in rural areas.
Duterte noted the absence of able-bodied men in his numerous visits to IP communities in Mindanao, particularly in Caraga Region, saying “most of the dwellers there are women and children.”
Calling on the tribal militiamen within the NPA ranks to “lay down their arms,” the President also urge them to avail of the “plenty of services” offered by the government under his administration.
Those who wish to serve in the Armed Forces, he added, may train and be “integrated into the military service.”
After the speech in Cabadbaran City, the President proceeded to military’s Camp Bancasi, this city to talk to the troops and presided the giving of military honors.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/996445
Authorities start to secure homes cleared by military in Marawi
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20): Authorities start to secure homes cleared by military in Marawi
With resistance from terrorist Maute and Abu Sayyaf Group declining in Marawi City, authorities have started securing abandoned houses and commercial establishments already cleared of lawless elements by government forces.
Salma Jayne Tamano, Lanao del Sur provincial information officer, said in a phone interview Tuesday that Lanao del Sur Gov. Soraya Alonto-Adiong has coordinated with the military and the police to close ranks with local government unit to save whatever left in the houses and buildings the Maute and Abu Sayyaf gunmen looted during the siege.
”This is to ensure that properties and valuables left by Marawi residents could be salvaged from looters and robbers,” Tamano said.
“After thorough inspection by clearing units of the Army and PNP, the gates of residential compounds and the doors of houses and establishments in areas subjected to the security mission were padlocked complete with documentation to ensure transparency,” Tamano said in a phone interview.
Led by the Provincial Security Force (PSF), the padlocking mission was documented by video and still photos,” she added.
The conflict that started on May 23 destroyed at least five villages within the city’s commercial and residential areas. Among the structures destroyed by the terrorists were a Catholic Church, a Catholic College and several ancestral homes of known Maranao clans.
Tamano said once clearing operations are over and the military issued the green light for residents to return, civilians will be allowed to visit their homes.
The United Nations Development Programme is helping the provincial government in the restoration.
Assemblyman Zia Alonto Adiong, spokesperson of the Lanao del Sur provincial crisis committee, lauded the UNDP, International Committee of the Red Cross and other national and international organizations for helping Marawi slowly rise up from the rubbles of war.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/996446
With resistance from terrorist Maute and Abu Sayyaf Group declining in Marawi City, authorities have started securing abandoned houses and commercial establishments already cleared of lawless elements by government forces.
Salma Jayne Tamano, Lanao del Sur provincial information officer, said in a phone interview Tuesday that Lanao del Sur Gov. Soraya Alonto-Adiong has coordinated with the military and the police to close ranks with local government unit to save whatever left in the houses and buildings the Maute and Abu Sayyaf gunmen looted during the siege.
”This is to ensure that properties and valuables left by Marawi residents could be salvaged from looters and robbers,” Tamano said.
“After thorough inspection by clearing units of the Army and PNP, the gates of residential compounds and the doors of houses and establishments in areas subjected to the security mission were padlocked complete with documentation to ensure transparency,” Tamano said in a phone interview.
Led by the Provincial Security Force (PSF), the padlocking mission was documented by video and still photos,” she added.
The conflict that started on May 23 destroyed at least five villages within the city’s commercial and residential areas. Among the structures destroyed by the terrorists were a Catholic Church, a Catholic College and several ancestral homes of known Maranao clans.
Tamano said once clearing operations are over and the military issued the green light for residents to return, civilians will be allowed to visit their homes.
The United Nations Development Programme is helping the provincial government in the restoration.
Assemblyman Zia Alonto Adiong, spokesperson of the Lanao del Sur provincial crisis committee, lauded the UNDP, International Committee of the Red Cross and other national and international organizations for helping Marawi slowly rise up from the rubbles of war.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/996446
NAPOLCOM allows recruitment of professionals into police service
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20): NAPOLCOM allows recruitment of professionals into police service
The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) has authorized the recruitment of professionals with highly technical qualifications for lateral entry into the police service.
NAPOLCOM Vice-Chairman and Executive Officer Rogelio Casurao said the Commission en banc approved Resolution No. 2017-229 dated May 31, 2017 granting the Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) the authority to fill up 545 vacancies for the ranks of Police Senior Inspector and Police Inspector under the PNP CY 2017 Lateral Entry Program.
"The PNP Lateral Entry Program is aimed at strengthening the corps of Technical Service Officers in the police service," Casurao said in a statement on Tuesday.
Out of the 545 vacancies in the various technical services of the PNP, 182 are for Police Senior Inspector (equivalent to Captain in the military) and 363 are for Police Inspector (equivalent to Lieutenant).
The quota distribution for Police Senior Inspector is broken down as 100 lawyers, 48 medical doctors and 34 priests, imams or pastors.
For the rank of Police Inspector, the PNP needs 85 registered nurses, 50 psychologists, 54 dentists, 50 forensic chemist/chemical engineers, 50 criminologists, 18 electronics and communications engineers, 40 information technology specialists, 11 civil engineers, three electrical engineers and two architects.
"The Chief of Office or Unit and the members of the Lateral Entry Board and the Screening and Selection Committee, including the head and members of the Secretariat, who shall fail to strictly observe and comply with the rules and procedures on appointment of police personnel shall be dealt with under existing rules and regulations," Casurao added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/996393
The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) has authorized the recruitment of professionals with highly technical qualifications for lateral entry into the police service.
NAPOLCOM Vice-Chairman and Executive Officer Rogelio Casurao said the Commission en banc approved Resolution No. 2017-229 dated May 31, 2017 granting the Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) the authority to fill up 545 vacancies for the ranks of Police Senior Inspector and Police Inspector under the PNP CY 2017 Lateral Entry Program.
"The PNP Lateral Entry Program is aimed at strengthening the corps of Technical Service Officers in the police service," Casurao said in a statement on Tuesday.
Out of the 545 vacancies in the various technical services of the PNP, 182 are for Police Senior Inspector (equivalent to Captain in the military) and 363 are for Police Inspector (equivalent to Lieutenant).
The quota distribution for Police Senior Inspector is broken down as 100 lawyers, 48 medical doctors and 34 priests, imams or pastors.
For the rank of Police Inspector, the PNP needs 85 registered nurses, 50 psychologists, 54 dentists, 50 forensic chemist/chemical engineers, 50 criminologists, 18 electronics and communications engineers, 40 information technology specialists, 11 civil engineers, three electrical engineers and two architects.
"The Chief of Office or Unit and the members of the Lateral Entry Board and the Screening and Selection Committee, including the head and members of the Secretariat, who shall fail to strictly observe and comply with the rules and procedures on appointment of police personnel shall be dealt with under existing rules and regulations," Casurao added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/996393
Marawi unlikely to become IS fighters' new hub — Palace
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 20): Marawi unlikely to become IS fighters' new hub — Palace
Malacañang on Tuesday said Marawi City is unlikely to turn into a new hub for extremist fighters from Southeast Asia as it downplayed concerns raised by several American lawmakers due to presence of foreign militants in the area.
At a Palace briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) had been able to thwart the ISIS-inspired Maute group from taking over the whole of Marawi and making it as base for Islamic State operations.
“At this stage, we’ll have to take the position that it’s unlikely for Marawi to become a new hub for IS fighters. The Philippine military has already preempted the Maute group from establishing a wilayat or a province in Marawi,” Abella said.
The Palace official issued the statement after some US lawmakers expressed their belief that the US should take a bigger role in the Marawi operations to prevent the spread of the extremist group’s reach in the region.
At present, the role of the US in the month-old crisis is limited to providing aerial surveillance and Malacañang wants it to stay that way.
“The role of the US is to provide technical assistance as prescribed by the Constitution and we will abide by that. Let’s go by what is already present, technical assistance,” Abella said.
He also downplayed suggestions that Philippine-US cooperation against extremist forces in Marawi was indicative of an improving relationship.
“It’s always existing like that. Gen. Padilla has expressed that particular aspect of agreement has always [been] in existence,” Abella said, referring to AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr.
The Palace official likewise said that President Rodrigo Duterte has accepted the technical assistance being provided the US in the war against terror.
“He’s accepted the situation at this stage,” Abella said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/996429
Malacañang on Tuesday said Marawi City is unlikely to turn into a new hub for extremist fighters from Southeast Asia as it downplayed concerns raised by several American lawmakers due to presence of foreign militants in the area.
At a Palace briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) had been able to thwart the ISIS-inspired Maute group from taking over the whole of Marawi and making it as base for Islamic State operations.
“At this stage, we’ll have to take the position that it’s unlikely for Marawi to become a new hub for IS fighters. The Philippine military has already preempted the Maute group from establishing a wilayat or a province in Marawi,” Abella said.
The Palace official issued the statement after some US lawmakers expressed their belief that the US should take a bigger role in the Marawi operations to prevent the spread of the extremist group’s reach in the region.
At present, the role of the US in the month-old crisis is limited to providing aerial surveillance and Malacañang wants it to stay that way.
“The role of the US is to provide technical assistance as prescribed by the Constitution and we will abide by that. Let’s go by what is already present, technical assistance,” Abella said.
He also downplayed suggestions that Philippine-US cooperation against extremist forces in Marawi was indicative of an improving relationship.
“It’s always existing like that. Gen. Padilla has expressed that particular aspect of agreement has always [been] in existence,” Abella said, referring to AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr.
The Palace official likewise said that President Rodrigo Duterte has accepted the technical assistance being provided the US in the war against terror.
“He’s accepted the situation at this stage,” Abella said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/996429
AFP denies using chemical weapons to bomb Marawi
From DZRH News (Jun 19): AFP denies using chemical weapons to bomb Marawi
Photo Credits: REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco
The military denied reports that poison was mixed with one of the bombs that was dropped in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur, in order to eradicate the Maute terror group.
During a press briefing, Lieutenant Colonel Jo-ar Herrera, spokesperson of Task Force Marawi, clarified that there is no truth in reports stating that Armed Forces of the Philippines is using chemicals for their airstrikes.
According to Lt. Herrera, military operations follows the rules of war.
The AFP official also appealed that the public do not believe on fake news that are being posted in the social media.
Herrera insist that the people must believe the authorities who are legitimate sources of news regarding the conflict in Marawi.
The spokesperson of TF Marawi further added that the surgical strikes in the war zone of Marawi will continue, and will only target members of Maute terror group and Abu Sayyaf group.
http://dzrhnews.com/afp-denies-using-chemical-weapons-bomb-marawi/
The military denied reports that poison was mixed with one of the bombs that was dropped in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur, in order to eradicate the Maute terror group.
During a press briefing, Lieutenant Colonel Jo-ar Herrera, spokesperson of Task Force Marawi, clarified that there is no truth in reports stating that Armed Forces of the Philippines is using chemicals for their airstrikes.
According to Lt. Herrera, military operations follows the rules of war.
The AFP official also appealed that the public do not believe on fake news that are being posted in the social media.
Herrera insist that the people must believe the authorities who are legitimate sources of news regarding the conflict in Marawi.
The spokesperson of TF Marawi further added that the surgical strikes in the war zone of Marawi will continue, and will only target members of Maute terror group and Abu Sayyaf group.
http://dzrhnews.com/afp-denies-using-chemical-weapons-bomb-marawi/
Troopers not using poison bomb in Marawi
From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Jun 20): Troopers not using poison bomb in Marawi
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/troopers-not-using-poison-bomb-in-marawi/
NO POISON BOMB . JTF Marawi spokesperson Lt. Col. Jo-Ar Herrera (left) told reporters in a press conference at the Provincial Capitol in Marawi on Monday that government troopers are not using poison bomb during the ongoing military offensives against the members of Maute. Brig. Gen. Ramiro Manuel Rey (right), commander of TF Ranao is also present during the press conference. (Alex D. Lopez/davaotoday.com)
MARAWI CITY, Philippines – The Joint Task Force Marawi said land and air forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines involved in the continuing military offensives against the ISIS-linked Maute Group here do not use poison bombs.
This was clarified by JTF-Marawi spokesperson Lt. Col. Jo-Ar Herrera in the midst of some reports that poisonous bombs might have been used by government forces in areas identified as strongholds of the subject terrorist group.
MARAWI CITY, Philippines – The Joint Task Force Marawi said land and air forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines involved in the continuing military offensives against the ISIS-linked Maute Group here do not use poison bombs.
This was clarified by JTF-Marawi spokesperson Lt. Col. Jo-Ar Herrera in the midst of some reports that poisonous bombs might have been used by government forces in areas identified as strongholds of the subject terrorist group.
“We are guided by the rule of law. Our forces do not use poison bombs,” Herrera told reporters in a press briefing on Monday, June 19.
Efforts to drive away Maute members inside Marawi now run into four weeks, the military is still not certain when the offensives will finally flush out the said terror group from the city.
It is estimated that 100 to 120 Maute members are still holed up in four villages that are still considered as their stronghold.
Efforts to drive away Maute members inside Marawi now run into four weeks, the military is still not certain when the offensives will finally flush out the said terror group from the city.
It is estimated that 100 to 120 Maute members are still holed up in four villages that are still considered as their stronghold.
Herrera said the members of Maute are also copying the tactics used by ISIS in Syria and Iraq, particularly on the utilization of rocket-propelled grenades and other high-powered firearms.
Ground troopers have also taken down drones believed to have been deployed by Maute to pinpoint locations of ground forces.
Ground troopers have also taken down drones believed to have been deployed by Maute to pinpoint locations of ground forces.
Herrera did not specify how many drones were already destroyed since the start of the Marawi siege.
US presence
Herrera also told reporters on Monday that the presence of a number of US forces in Marawi is just normal.
US presence
Herrera also told reporters on Monday that the presence of a number of US forces in Marawi is just normal.
“The Philippines has existing mutual agreements with the US especially on defense,” he said.
But he also clarified that US forces are not involved in actual ground offensives inside Marawi.
“They have no direct participation in tactical operations. All the forces involved on the ground are Filipino soldiers,” he said.
The US troopers in Marawi, he added, only provide intelligence information, Herrera said.
Since Monday, June 19, a total of 257 Maute members were already killed while 250 high-powered firearms were also recovered by government troopers.
But he also clarified that US forces are not involved in actual ground offensives inside Marawi.
“They have no direct participation in tactical operations. All the forces involved on the ground are Filipino soldiers,” he said.
The US troopers in Marawi, he added, only provide intelligence information, Herrera said.
Since Monday, June 19, a total of 257 Maute members were already killed while 250 high-powered firearms were also recovered by government troopers.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/troopers-not-using-poison-bomb-in-marawi/
Monday, June 19, 2017
MILF: Lanao Del Sur Muslim Leaders Urge Gov’t To Stop Aerial Strikes In Marawi City
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Jun 18): Lanao Del Sur Muslim Leaders Urge Gov’t To Stop Aerial Strikes In Marawi City
Lanao del Sur Muslim leaders comprising sultans, datus and imams gathered in Iligan City on Thursday and urged the government to stop aerial strikes in Marawi City.
An ABS- CBN online report said that the leaders urged President Rodrigo Duterte to be open to negotiations with the terrorist Maute group to address the crisis in Marawi and to include the sultanates in Mindanao in all talks.
Sheik Haron Ali Tomawis, the oldest of the Maranao tribe leaders, said war is not the option to address the crisis in Marawi. Tomawis also asked the military for a ceasefire and consider their observance of the holy month of Ramadan, the report also said.
The group also asked for considerations from the local government of Iligan City to allow Maranaos to go out during curfew hours.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/890/lanao-del-sur-muslim-leaders-urge-gov---t-to-stop-aerial-strikes-in-marawi-city
Lanao del Sur Muslim leaders comprising sultans, datus and imams gathered in Iligan City on Thursday and urged the government to stop aerial strikes in Marawi City.
An ABS- CBN online report said that the leaders urged President Rodrigo Duterte to be open to negotiations with the terrorist Maute group to address the crisis in Marawi and to include the sultanates in Mindanao in all talks.
Sheik Haron Ali Tomawis, the oldest of the Maranao tribe leaders, said war is not the option to address the crisis in Marawi. Tomawis also asked the military for a ceasefire and consider their observance of the holy month of Ramadan, the report also said.
The group also asked for considerations from the local government of Iligan City to allow Maranaos to go out during curfew hours.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/890/lanao-del-sur-muslim-leaders-urge-gov---t-to-stop-aerial-strikes-in-marawi-city
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