All hostages in Marawi rescued, firefights ongoing

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All hostages in Marawi have been rescued, Philippine military said in a press conference on Sunday afternoon, adding that the firefights are still ongoing.

"Firefights may continue until midnight. AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) hopes to kill, capture Maute fighters or they surrender to state forces," said Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of Task Group Ranao, at the press conference in Marawi.

There are at least 30 Maute members in the city of Marawi and it cannot be determined how many of them are still living or dead, said Brawner.

“As of noon today, there is still resistance,” Brawner said, reiterating that the military targets to end the armed conflict by midnight.

The Marawi crisis has lasted for 153 days since May 23, claiming more than 1,000 lives.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared liberation of Marawi from terrorists last Tuesday, adding that the military operations continue.

During the battle, 919 terrorists were killed, and 1,780 hostages have been rescued.

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