Lanao solons seek probe on ‘lack of intelligence’ in Marawi siege

Three Lanao lawmakers have filed a House resolution seeking to investigate the “lack of intelligence” by the Philippine National Police that led to the siege of Marawi City.

House Resolution No. 1760 was filed by Lanao del Norte Representatives Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo and Abdullah Dimaporo, and Lanao del Sur Rep. Mauyag Papandayan Jr.

The resolution noted that, though the clash started with “what ought to be just an operation to capture” Isnilon Hapilon, the leader of Islamic State-inspired terrorists, the conflict lasted five months.

Escalation of clash

“The escalation of the clash to a siege could have been prevented if the PNP conducted intelligence and counterintelligence activities properly,” the resolution read.

It deplored the PNP’s failure to plan for the outcome of operations to stop the flow of illegal firearms, explosives and ammunitions to Marawi.

Japanese donation

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) received on Thursday 27 sets of heavy equipment from the Japanese government.

The equipment—seven hydraulic excavators, three bulldozers, three wheel loaders, two motor graders and 12 dump trucks—would be used by Task Force Bangon Marawi as part of the Philippine-Japan Economic and Social Development Program, the DPWH said.

Public Works Secretary Mark Villar and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea represented the Philippine government, while Japan was represented by Japanese Ambassador Koji Haneda. —VINCE F. NONATO AND JULIE M. AURELIO