Marawi residents urged: Remain vigilant vs terror threat

MANILA, Philippines — The government might have liberated Marawi City from Islamic State-inspired terrorists but the threat of militants still lingers in its ruins.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana issued the warning as he rallied displaced residents of the heavily devastated city to remain steadfast.

“We must remain vigilant because terrorists are just lurking in the shadows. Though we have accomplished much in our counterterrorism efforts for the past year, these endeavors still require continued perseverance, vigilance and sacrifice of everyone,” Lorenzana told the gathered residents during a visit to Marawi on Thursday.

The defense chief issued the call amid reports that remnants of the Maute group are actively recruiting members across Mindanao, particularly those living in the towns and villages located around Lake Lanao.

Lorenzana flew to Marawi a day after officials commemorated last year’s attack and occupation of the city by the Maute group.

Nearly 1,000 terrorists, more than 160 soldiers and policemen and almost 100 civilians died during the five months of fighting to drive out the militants.

One of the highlights of Lorenzana’s visit was the signing of a joint declaration of all-out support by the displaced residents to government efforts in ensuring peace and order in Lanao del Sur and condemning local terrorist groups.

Lorenzana assured the people of Marawi that in no time the Islamic City will rise again and peace and development will rule the city.

“The city will be healed and the people will dance and laugh again. But to be safe we must stand firm for peace while being alert on what is happening around. Let us also continue to echo our call for peace and unity,” he said.

Considered as the Philippines’ longest urban warfare after World War II, the five months of fighting literally reduced Marawi City into rubble and forced thousands of residents to abandon their homes.

Thousands of displaced residents remain in emergency shelters, unable to return to what remained of their homes under threat of unexploded bombs and booby traps.

“The concrete jungles of Marawi brought out many stories of gallantry, true courage, dedication of our troops and that of resilience of Marawi residents… One year may have passed but the pain and the ruins are still there. Rest assured that the government has been doing all it can to diminish the pain and put things back to normal,” Lorenzana said. – With Roel Pareño, John Unson, Non Alquitran, Rhodina Villanueva