Ceasefire breaks, Philippine city falls into ruins

Hundreds of civilians remain trapped in Marawi, a city witnessing fierce fighting between Philippine government troops and Maute rebels loyal to the Islamic State (IS) group.

A four-hour humanitarian ceasefire was brokered by the two sides to allow civilians to evacuate Marawi. However, according to Reuters, gunfire broke out just an hour after it took effect. Authorities had hoped to evacuate 1,000 people, but the number has only stopped at 130.

Philippine soldiers enter Marawi. (Photo: Reuters)

It is not clear which side opened fire first. A government representative said talks would resume today (June 5) to reach another temporary ceasefire.

Fighting in Marawi, in the Mindanao region, has so far claimed the lives of more than 170 people, including at least 20 civilians. Most of the city’s 200,000 residents have fled, leaving 2,000 still trapped.

Photo: ABS-CBN News

Images obtained by ABS-CBN News show widespread devastation, with many buildings reduced to rubble, leaving Marawi looking like a ghost town.

A five-story building burned to the ground while other houses and structures around it were destroyed. The road from Agus Bridge leading to the communes and wards was impassable because of rocks and soil blocking the way.

The Philippine government forces said that Maute fighters were holed up in high-rise concrete houses to easily observe and shoot at government troops tightening the siege. Therefore, the army had to bombard from the air to support the infantry attacking the rebels.

Local government officials have now drawn up plans for a rehabilitation program for Marawi after the fighting ends. However, rebuilding the city is a huge challenge.

Photo: ABS-CBN News

Fighting broke out in Marawi more than a week ago, when Philippine military and police entered the city to arrest Isnilon Hapilon, a leader of the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group, but failed. They encountered fierce resistance from members of both Abu Sayyaf and Maute, a group loyal to IS.

President Duterte has declared martial law across the entire Mindanao region. During this time, authorities can arrest anyone without a warrant.

According to VNN