MANILA, Philippines — A group inspired by the so-called Islamic State took hostage of a priest, church staff and churchgoers after burning the cathedral in Marawi City, Bishop Edwin dela Peña said Wednesday. The bishop, however, did not have information on the exact number of hostages taken by the local terror group. "One of their diversionary tactics is pasukin ang Marawi City at dito ma-focus 'yung focus ng kasundaluhan at Philippine National Police," Gandamra said. Gandamra noted that the military had started operations against the terror group in some parts of Lanao del Sur, particularly in municipalities where there is reported presence of the group. President Rodrigo Duterte has declared martial rule in Mindanao after clashes between government troops and the terror group in Marawi City.

Source: Philippine Star May 24, 2017 03:47 UTC