MANILA — The Philippine Navy (PN) on Monday honored the Fleet-Marine contingent’s successful deployment in Marawi City in the liberation of the locality from the hands of the Maute Group terrorists.
Capt. Lued Lincuna, PN spokesperson, said the contingent consists of sailors, marines, aviators, and “Seals” who were deployed in the Naval Forces Western Mindanao area-of-operations during the height of the crisis.
These military personnel were transported from Iligan City to Manila by the BRP Tarlac (LD-601) shortly after the successful conclusion of the campaign which was highlighted by the elimination of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and Maute Group founder, Omar Maute, last October 23.
Fighting in Marawi City broke out after government troops tried to arrest Hapilon and his cohorts last May 23.
An estimated 920 terrorists were killed while 165 government troops were killed in the five-month battle.
Of the 165 troops killed, 35 are members of the Philippine Marine Corps.
The returning Fleet-Marine contingent was personally welcomed by PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado at Pier 13, Manila South Harbor.
A heroes’ welcome with the theme “Brazo Zulu, Home for Christmas” was given to the returning military personnel and witnessed by their families and loved ones.