MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--Philippine National Police chief PGen. Guillermo Eleazar is optimistic that Marawi will bounce back from the challenges it has faced during the five-month siege in 2017.

“Amid various challenges, Marawi will certainly bounce back and from the ruins will rise a new Marawi City,” said Eleazar during the culmination program of the Kapananadem or Commemoration of the Liberation of the City.

Eleazar said the battle against the violent extremists left a trail of sacrifice and courage for the security forces who fought for the liberty of the besieged City.

“That fierce battle did not only leave a trail of death and destruction to Marawi City but more significantly it has also left a trail of sacrifice and courage of our brothers who fought for liberty and peace of the entire nation,” he said.

He said that the sacrifice and courage transcended religious beliefs and went beyond cultural borders. He also reminded the people that despite the differences, they are all Filipinos under one flag and one Republic.

The PNP chief also said that there is always a silver lining on what is happening in the City.

“Maraming magandang bagay na inaayos at maaayos because of that unfortunate incident. Makikita natin ang mas magandang Marawi City na naging maayos, sa pangunguna ng pamahalaan,” he said.

[Many good things are being repaired and will be rehabilitated because of that unfortunate incident. We will see a better Marawi City that has gone well, under the leadership of the government.]

Eleazar further said that the sacrifices of the soldiers, police officers and citizens will never be forgotten. He also lauded the efforts of the different line agencies to make a better and progressive community. (LELA /PIA Lanao del Sur)