The battle of the government troops and Maute fighters continue in Marawi despite the death of two top terrorist leaders and even after President Rodrigo Duterte declared the city’s liberation on Tuesday.
Duterte proclaimed, “Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi City liberated from terrorist influence. That marks the beginning of rehabilitation.”
In spite of this, the military’s spokesman said that the fight is not yet over.
When Col. Romeo Brawner Jr., deputy commander of the military task force fighting the terrorists was asked if Duterte’s declaration was symbolic, he responded, “Yes, because we cannot really say that it’s 100 percent cleared. Even when World War II ended and liberation had been declared, fighting continued. That is also what’s happening here.”
However, he assured that they are going to rescue all hostages and finish off the few remaining terrorists.
DAILY NEWS ROUND UP FOR 10/ 18 /17