Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed today Oct. 16 the death of two Marawi war leaders, signaling the possible end of the crisis in Marawi City.
Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, who is said to be the anointed Islamic State (IS) leader in Southeast Asia, and Maute group leader Omar Maute were killed in a clash with the military at 4 a.m. today, said Lorenzana.
The defense secretary said the Maute brothers were killed by the military after a hostage who was able to escape the group tipped-off their whereabouts.
He said the body should still undergo DNA testing for official confirmation. He also noted that the DNA testing is necessary as there are bounties for each of the two Maute brothers.
President Rodrigo Duterte offered P10-million bounty for Hapilon, on top of the reward offered by the US amounting to $5-million.
The police forces in Marawi have also recovered 17 hostages today. Defense Secretary said there are only more than 20 civilians who have yet to be rescued from the hands of the terrorist group.
The defense secretary also said that the death of the two could imply termination of hostilities in Marawi City.
He told media reporters in an interview that they might recommend the conclusion of martial law in Mindanao to the president.
The crisis in Marawi started on May 23 when IS-inspired Maute group emerged within the city and fought with government troops.
As of this posting, the war has resulted in the death of 162 government soldiers, 822 Maute fighters and 47 civilians, Col. Romeo Brawner, Deputy Commander of Task Force Ranao, said.
