Philippine soldiers on a patrol in Marawi after the city is liberated (Photo: Xinhua/VNA) Hanoi (VNA) – The Maute terrorist group remains a threat tothe region although Marawi city of Mindanao has been liberated, warned ArmedForces of the Philippines (AFP) on December 8.
AFP spokesperson Major General Restituto Padilla said though the groupis weakened, its militants who escaped from the Government’s militarycampaigns, are seeking new members with prize money.
Other terror groups also pose danger to the Philippines besides the Mautegroup, including the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Maguindanao, Lanaodel Sur and Cotabato, while the Abu Sayyaf is active in Basilan, Sulu andTawi-Tawi.
Philippine police have recently proposed extension of martial law inMindanao until next year, which received support from the AFP.
In October, the country announced full liberation of Marawi city fromMaute group, which has links with the self-claimed Islamic State (IS). Thefive-month clash claimed more than 1,100 lives and displaced 400,000people.-VNA
