The Marawi siege is turning into a humanitarian crisis as thousands of residents remain stranded while others flee amid a raging battle between soldiers and the Islamic State (IS)-inspired Maute group. People want to go out of Marawi City because they are afraid to be caught in the crossfire,” said Datu Ali-Asgar Solaiman, founding chairman of non-government organization Bangsamoro International Solidarity Conference that helps evacuees. The Iligan City government enforced a thorough search following reports that some Maute fighters and their sympathizers mingled with evacuees in their bid to escape from Marawi City. The provincial government of Lanao del Norte and the local government of Iligan City said they are ready to receive evacuees from Marawi. Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo has instructed the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to prepare for the possible flow of displaced residents from Marawi.

Source: Philippine Star May 24, 2017 17:15 UTC