A report published by think tank Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict detailed how local militants got funding support from the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and Syria central command in the Middle East. This allure may be seen by tracing local funds used to support the preparation of militants for the almost two-month siege, the report said. Recruiters also used the alleged brutality of security forces as a common theme to lure young people on campuses nationwide. Clashes between security forces and Islamist militants still holed up in a small section of Marawi is entering their second month in a few days’ time. They began on May 23 when security forces encountered heavy resistance from fighters after they attempted to arrest Isnilon Hapilon.

Source: Philippine Star July 21, 2017 09:22 UTC