Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella (Paulo C. Rizal/davaotoday.com)
DAVAO CITY, Philippines — At least 10 hours of “humanitarian pause” between the government troops and Maute group on Sunday gave way for the rescue of six civilians including an elderly.
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said a body of a civilian who was believed to be killed by the Maute group was also recovered during the ceasefire.
“First rescued was a senior citizen, 79 years old. Next were five other civilians,” he said in a statement on Monday, June 26.
A military source said the eight-hour “humanitarian pause” was extended to another two hours and a few minutes more.
The temporary ceasefire was declared starting 6am to 2pm on Sunday, to allow Muslims a peaceful celebration of the Eid al-Fitr.
The Maute group also agreed to the “humanitarian pause” through an emissary.
As of 7 pm on Sunday, the Joint Task Force Marawi has recorded 27 civilians killed by the local terrorists and 1,702 civilians rescued.
Abella added 70 government forces were killed in action, while there are 290 terrorists killed.
Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman, Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said government troops who were killed include those who expired while being treated.
“Such a high price to pay for the liberation of Marawi. But we remain undeterred and will carry the fight until our mission is completed,” he said.
Meanwhile, Abella said government troops has successfully cleared 85 buildings so far.
The troops, Abella added, are increasing the “recovery and control of vantage points.”
Out of 96 barangays in Marawi City, four barangays remain controlled by the local terrorists who attacked the city on May 23.
Abella said the continued use of snipers, improvised explosive devices, and RPGs of the Maute group from remaining vantage positions remain a challenge for the military.
“Add to this the use of combustible materials and other incendiary devices,” he said. (davaotoday.com)
