Interior and Local Government Officer-in-charge Catalino Cuy on Wednesday assured the residents of Marawi City that the government security forces are on top of the situation and are doing their best to ensure the people’s safety amid the terror attack in the city.
In a statement, Cuy said clearing operations are now being conducted by the police and military in Marawi as members of the Maute Group occupied parts of the city.
“We are closely coordinating with the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) in ensuring the safety of the people of Marawi and all Mindanaoans. In the meantime, all are advised to stay indoors and remain calm. Those who may opt to evacuate should do so with caution and in coordination with their local officials,” he said.
Cuy reiterated that the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and top police officials are closely coordinating and getting updates from the ground especially on the police and military personnel killed and wounded in the firefight.
“As part of our newly given mandate at the DILG to look after our police and military, we exert extra efforts to know how our men are doing, especially during these difficult times,” Cuy said.
President Rodrigo Duterte has placed the entire Mindanao under martial law following the violent clashes in Marawi. It will only be effective for 60 days.