Gov’t checking existence of new armed group in Mindanao

September 20, 2017

Malacanang said on Wednesday the government is verifying if a new armed group has been formed in Mindanao.

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the military is checking the video posted online on the supposed existence of the  "Meranaw Victims Movement."

The movement was created in the wake of the Marawi crisis. The group was demanding the Islamic State-inspired Maute terrorists to leave Marawi and free their hostages.

"The government does not tolerate the formation of armed groups to seek redress for grievances of citizens. Also, demands from government are better made through dialogues and consultation with various stakeholders," Abella said.

The military has been pursuing the militants who started occupying Marawi on May 23. Celerina Monte/DMS