The ceasefire broke, and the Philippine city was reduced to rubble.

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

A four-hour humanitarian ceasefire between the two sides was the result of a brokered arrangement to help civilians evacuate Marawi. However, according to Reuters, gunfire resumed just an hour after the ceasefire took effect. Authorities had hoped to evacuate 1,000 people, but the number only reached 130.

Philippine soldiers enter Marawi. (Photo: Reuters)

It is unclear which side fired first. A government representative said negotiations would resume today (June 5) to reach another temporary ceasefire.

To date, fighting in Marawi, Mindanao, has claimed the lives of more than 170 people, including at least 20 civilians. Most of the city's 200,000 residents have fled, but 2,000 remain trapped.

Photo: ABS-CBN News

Images obtained by ABS-CBN News show widespread destruction, with many buildings reduced to rubble, making Marawi now look like a ghost city.

A five-story building was reduced to a charred frame while other houses and structures in the surrounding area were destroyed. The road from the Agus Bridge to the surrounding villages was impassable due to landslides and debris blocking the way.

Philippine government forces said Maute militants were holed up in multi-story concrete buildings to easily observe and fire at government troops tightening their encirclement. Therefore, the military had to provide air support for ground troops attacking the rebels.

Local government officials have now planned a recovery program for Marawi following the end of the fighting. However, rebuilding the city will be an enormous challenge.

Photo: ABS-CBN News

Fighting broke out in Marawi more than a week ago when Philippine troops 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 ISIS.

President Duterte has declared martial law throughout Mindanao. During this time, authorities can arrest anyone without a warrant.

According to VNN