16 June 2017

News Story: Fighting to free besieged southern Philippine city "likely" to prolong - ICRC

MANILA, June 15 (Xinhua) -- The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said on Thursday the continuing clashes to retake the besieged southern Philippine city of Marawi "will likely prolong."

"The continuing clashes, and its damage on infrastructures in the city, will likely prolong the displacement of Marawi residents. Their needs are immense and growing by the day," the ICRC said in a recent report released on Thursday.

The fighting between government forces and militants allied with Islamic State in Marawi City in Lanao del Sur province has entered its fourth week from May 23.

The ICRC said the affected residents who are likely to face prolonged displacement due to the impact of the fighting on their homes will need help to get back on their feet.

While evacuation efforts are ongoing, the ICRC said an estimated 300-500 people remain trapped in the city.

Read the full story at Xinhua