Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday declared a southern city “liberated from terrorists” after a five-month battle against militants loyal to ISIS.
Duterte made the declaration in a rain-soaked speech to troops in Marawi where they have been fighting the militants in clashes that have claimed more than 1,000 lives and displaced 400,000 people.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi liberated from the terrorists,” Duterte said, speaking moments just after explosions and gunfire were heard in the city.
Duterte’s announcement came just hours after the military said it was still hunting down 20 to 30 fighters in the battle zone, including Malaysian militant leader Mahmud Ahmad.
On Monday, the military claimed a major breakthrough when it announced the death of Isnilon Hapilon, said by Duterte and security analysts to be the leader of an IS bid to declare a Southeast Asian caliphate as they suffer battlefield defeats in Iraq and Syria.
GMT 02:07 2017 Friday ,17 November
Philippines to implement family planning law in blow to churchGMT 02:47 2017 Thursday ,12 October
Philippines votes for new presidentGMT 02:03 2017 Tuesday ,10 October
Philippines' Duterte declares communist ceasefireGMT 00:01 2017 Thursday ,21 September
Philippine leader halts Russia trip, imposes martial lawGMT 10:03 2017 Saturday ,26 August
Thousands at boy's burial seek end to Philippine drug warMaintained and developed by Arabs Today Group SAL.
All rights reserved to Arab Today Media Group 2021 ©
Maintained and developed by Arabs Today Group SAL.
All rights reserved to Arab Today Media Group 2021 ©
Send your comments
Your comment as a visitor