Memorializing the triumph that forever marked the history of the country, the Islamic City of Marawi commemorated the sixth anniversary of its liberation from the five-month occupation of the Dawlah-inspired Maute group.
Looking back, former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte declared the locality’s freedom on October 17, 2017, and realized his intent to lead a full-blast operation to restore the lost glory.
This year, the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) and the city government here, alongside other line agencies, led a special program that kicked off with a wreath-laying at the Heroes’ Wall in Kampo Ranao to honor the fallen heroes of urban warfare.
In his speech, Mayor Majul Gandamra stressed that their trip toward total healing from all the derogative impacts of the firefight has never been light and smooth.
Nonetheless, he conveyed that the strength and tenacity of the locals emerged, thus, their hope and determination persisted to once again rebuild their city where physical infrastructures would be erected, and their spirit and soul fostered despite remembering the pain and destruction of the past.
“The stories of heroism and resilience that unfolded during the darkest days of our history have brought us together as a community. We have witnessed the resilience of our people, the spirit of Bayanihan, and the unwavering faith that has sustained us in adversity. We reaffirm our commitment to rise above the challenges that fly ahead and work hand-in-hand towards a better and brighter future for Marawi City,” said Gandamra.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. also witnessed this. In his relayed message, he recounted the unfortunate tragedy in this city six years ago, leaving challenges for the people and brave government forces.
He underscored that notwithstanding the sufferings which needed to be endured, the victors of the clash could proudly celebrate this year’s anniversary for it marked treasurable memories which signified that peace would always prevail.
Following this, President Marcos expressed his firm dedication to back all the endeavors toward the complete restoration of the most affected area (MAA).
He likewise promised to address the cause of all underlying issues so that they could successfully bring about social healing and lay down a better path for every Maranao.
“Rest assured, my dear Filipinos, that this administration will strive to achieve the goals that we have set for you and your city. The government will expedite the progression of all the Marawi rehabilitation projects and process all the claims with utmost urgency and responsiveness,” said President Marcos.
The implementing agencies turned over some completed projects at Ground Zero to the city government to highlight the program. These included the Marawi Convention Center, Sarimanok Sports Stadium, Peace and Rizal Parks, restored historical landmarks, School of Living Traditions, MAA barangay complexes with health centers and madrasahs, barangay halls in the least affected area, Torogan Royal House, solid waste management building with motor pool, powerhouse with standby generator set, central material recovery facility, and Marawi Agri-Food Terminal. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)
No comments