AFP to Marawi troops: Stay alive, motivated

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff General Eduardo Año on Wednesday visited troops stationed in Camp Ranao, Marawi City and motivated them to continue the fight against Isis-inspired Maute group terrorists and stay alive.

Año's order came as fighting between government soldiers and the terrorists entered its 72nd day.

Año was welcomed by AFP Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) chief Lt. Gen. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., and the commander of the Joint Task Force Marawi Brig. Gen. Joselito Bautista.

Ground commanders also presented a situation brief to the Chief of Staff and gave him a clearer picture of what is going on in the main battle area.

In his message to the troops, the AFP Chief of Staff said that "Just like in game of basketball, we are already winning, but we should not rest on our laurels."

"We must be more motivated and more persistent. Many among our soldiers want to be here to help, but not everyone is given this rare chance to be here, to fight," Año said.

"Just remember that what you are doing is not only for the country, but also for the future,” he added.