Some residents cried as PH flag was raised in Marawi

Some residents of Marawi City who watched the Philippine flag being raised at the Capitol grounds shed tears.

One soldier was also overcome with emotions.

These scenes took place during the ceremony on Monday morning in the city marking the 119^th anniversary of the Philippine Independence.

The capitol grounds are being used as temporary shelter by some families who fled their homes.

As the ceremony at the Capitol was being held, bomb explosions in the center of Marawi City could be heart, indicating that the clashes are still raging.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines has lost 58 soldiers since fighting with the Maute group began on May 23.

The figure includes the 13 Marines who lost their lives in a day-long battle with the Maute terrorists last Friday.

Marawi City Mayor Majul Usman Gandamra is asking his people to fight the terrorists.

“Panawagan ko sa aking mga kababayan ay lumaban tayo sa mga lawless elements na gustong sirain ang ating demokrasya, kahit mga kamag-anak pa natin (I ask my constituents to fight the lawless elements, even if they are our relatives),” he said.