MARAWI City — Government officials, military personnel and local leaders renewed their commitment to lasting peace and inclusive development as Marawi City commemorated the ninth anniversary of its liberation on October 17, 2026.
The 103rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade of the Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division led the commemoration through a wreath-laying ceremony and program at the Heroes Wall, Kampo Ranao, honoring those who sacrificed their lives during the 2017 siege.
Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman Sr., Presidential Adviser for Marawi Rehabilitation and Development, served as guest of honor and speaker, emphasizing the need to address remaining gaps in the city's recovery.
Pangandaman disclosed that nearly 15,000 compensation claims involving siege victims were being addressed, with more than 5,000 reportedly paid. The government is coordinating with the Marawi Compensation Board and the National Housing Authority to expedite the processing of claims.
“Marami na pong nagawa, pero mas marami pong kulang,” Pangandaman said, acknowledging the progress made while recognizing the work that remains.
He also cited efforts to complete an integrated school designed to accommodate approximately 9,000 to 10,000 students, alongside initiatives to address delays and funding gaps affecting hospital development.
Pangandaman stressed that rehabilitation must go beyond infrastructure, highlighting the need for sustainable livelihood opportunities to help affected families rebuild their lives and regain financial stability.
He paid tribute to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police and other security personnel who risked their lives during the conflict, as well as medical workers, local officials, volunteers and humanitarian partners who assisted displaced residents.
Meanwhile, Marawi City Vice Mayor Sultan Majul U. Gandamra said the anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the city's recovery while recognizing families still waiting for the full restoration of their homes, livelihoods and communities.
Gandamra recalled the collective efforts of local and national governments, security forces and humanitarian organizations in providing relief assistance, temporary shelters, housing support and other services to displaced families.
He acknowledged signs of progress, including restored infrastructure, reopening businesses and returning economic activity, but emphasized that recovery must translate into tangible benefits for affected residents.
Gandamra called for the completion of rehabilitation projects, expanded livelihood opportunities, responsible investments and inclusive development, urging leaders to remain open to constructive criticism and strengthen good governance.
The ceremony was attended by Brig. Gen. William George S. Cordova, assistant division commander of the 1st Infantry Division, representing division commander Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr.; Lanao del Sur Vice Gov. Mohammad Khalid “Mujam” R. Adiong; Piagapo Mayor Ali L. Sumandar; and representatives of government agencies, security forces and partner institutions.
In remarks delivered through Cordova, Barroquillo reaffirmed the Philippine Army's commitment to working with government partners and communities to preserve peace, prevent the resurgence of violent extremism and support Marawi's continuing rehabilitation.
Nine years after liberation, government and military leaders emphasized the importance of sustained cooperation to complete rehabilitation, improve public services and strengthen economic opportunities for the Maranao people, ensuring that the city's future is defined by peace, resilience and inclusive development.
