[PhilStar] Despite the liberation of Marawi City from the Maute group, the ISIS-affiliated group remains a threat to the region.On October 17, Philippine president Duterte declared the liberation of Marawi following the deaths of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and one of the Maute brothers, Omar Maute. The remaining members of the Maute group are attempting to recover by recruiting new members, however.
Military spokesman Restituto Padilla said,"They still remain to be a threat. Although they have been significantly degraded in terms of capability and manpower, those who survived that siege still remain at large."
According to the military, remaining militants are recruiting children, women and the relatives of those who were killed in battle through the enticement of cash rewards.
Aside from the Maute group, there are also threats of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur and Cotabato while the Abu Sayyaf still exists in Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
According to DILG officer-in-charge Catalino Cuy, continuing threats from terrorist groups prompted the Philippine National Police to recommend an extension of martial law in Mindanao for another year. The military has expressed its support for the proposed extension.