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Marawi City, Lanao del Sur
October 16, 2021

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led the nation’s commemoration of the 4th Anniversary of the Liberation of Marawi City since the Islamic State (IS)-linked Maute terrorist group took over the Islamic City on May 23, 2017.

Rehabilitation in Marawi City came in full swing after President Duterte announced its liberation from terrorism on October 17, 2017. With the issuance of Administrative Order No. 3 and the creation of Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM), the President ordered the recovery and reconstruction efforts of the City from destruction caused by the Maute terrorist group and the military offensive of government forces to free Marawi.

In his speech, President Duterte commended the TFBM for its fast implementation of the Bangon Marawi Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program in rebuilding the lives of displaced families, restoring damaged properties and revitalizing disrupted socio-economic activities, thereby affirming its strong commitment as agents of progress and catalysts of real change.

“We, in government, are strongly committed to bring back the City’s glory. And we will continue to foster cooperation among concerned stakeholders so that Marawi will be able to build back better and stronger,” the President stated.

Likewise, he honored all the soldiers and police personnel for their bravery, sacrifice and determination in defending and liberating Marawi City after five (5) months of battle and reiterated that the government remains steadfast in securing the nation against terrorism, violent extremism and other lawless elements.

“With your support, I am confident that we will overcome any challenge that may test our strength and unity as a nation. Let us therefore continue working as one to secure a better, safer and more prosperous future for all of Marawi,” the Chief Executive said.

During the program, President Duterte witnessed the distribution of Certificates of Title for permanent housing units from the National Housing Authority (NHA) and turnover of financial assistance from the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), among others.

Prior to the event proper, President Duterte inspected the newly constructed Jameo Mindanao Al-Islamie or the Grand Mosque, considered to be the biggest house of worship in Marawi City.

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