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