Marawi evacuees convinced not to protest during Sona

Government officials were able to convince evacuees from Marawi City not to join protests against President Rodrigo Duterte’s second State of the Nation Address (Sona).

“We thank the residents for postponing their activity to a later date, when their safety and well-being can be more assured,” Defense Secretary Lorenzana said in a statement on Monday.

Some evacuees sheltered in Cagayan de Oro, Iligan and nearby areas in Marawi were supposed to hold a rally as the President delivers his second Sona.

Lorenzana said it was the wish of the residents to return to their homes, and had planned a protest action to express it.

The residents were lamenting their situation in evacuation centers and the alleged looting and destruction of their homes.

The planned action was preempted by a dialogue led by Lorenzana with local government units, NGOs, and residents on Sunday in Iligan City.

“The dialogue was very cordial and productive. Marawi residents were able to raise concerns that need to be addressed by the government agencies,” Lorenzana said.

Fighting in the besieged city started on May 23, and has killed over 500 people and displaced thousands of residents.

Lorenzana said they respect the right of every Filipino to express themselves through peaceful means but also appealed for understanding as the fighting continued.

“We ask for a little more understanding and patience as we deal with the remaining Maute fighters who continue to put up stiff resistance,” he said, saying they are also as anxious to end the crisis. IDL/rga