Politics
10:30, 18-Jun-2017
Philippine president resurfaces: Marawi City battle 'winding up'
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By CGTN's Barnaby Lo
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Saturday that a battle with ISIL-allied militants in Marawi City was winding up.
In his first public comments in nearly a week, Duterte said the militants have deep roots in the city on Mindanao Island.
More than 300 people have been killed in the southern town, where troops have been fighting for over three weeks to oust militants who have sworn allegiance to ISIL.
Government soldiers on patrol on June 17, 2017, as they continue their assault against insurgents from the Maute group, who have taken over large parts of Marawi City. /VCG Photo
Government soldiers on patrol on June 17, 2017, as they continue their assault against insurgents from the Maute group, who have taken over large parts of Marawi City. /VCG Photo
Duterte's recent low profile led to speculation about his health. The 72-year-old dismissed the concerns, saying he was “extremely tired.” A rested Duterte attended an event honoring soldiers killed in Marawi City.
"Do not worry," he told reporters after the event. "My state of health is immaterial. There is the vice president who will take over."
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