ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Regional Peace and Order Council-9 (RPOC-9) remains supportive to President Rodrigo Duterte in his continuous implementation of martial law in Mindanao even as the fighting in Marawi City has ended.
Duterte declared that Marawi City has been liberated after the death of Maute group leader Omar Maute and Abu Sayyaf Group leader Isnilon Hapilon following an intense gun battle in the morning of October 16.
Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, RPOC-9 chair, said they would take the cue from President Duterte with regards to the implementation of martial law.
The President has implemented martial law throughout Mindanao when the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired Maute group attacked Marawi City on May 23.
The Maute group members went berserk and occupied several establishments after government forces on May 23 raided the hideout of Hapilon, who pledged allegiance to the ISIS.
“We awaited for the order of the President regarding (the implementation of) martial law in Mindanao,” Salazar said.
Meanwhile, this city is expecting the arrival of troops on Monday from their triumphant mission in quelling the five-month Marawi siege.
The end of the fighting paves the way for clearing and rehabilitation of Marawi City. (PNA)
