Marawi Siege was first time AFP systematically controlled narrative, journalists say

Marawi Siege was first time AFP systematically controlled narrative, journalists say

MARAWI CITY (MindaNews/21 October)— The armed services and local authorities, in a solemn ceremony Friday, October 17, marked the eight anniversary of the “liberation” of Marawi City from the Daesh-inspired Maute terror group hailing it as a major victory for the Armed Forces of the Philippines(AFP) and the government. But for journalists who covered the bitter five-month fighting, the conflict was the first time the AFP restricted the access an…

Eight years after liberation: Marawi still bears the scars of a controlled war

MARAWI City — In a solemn ceremony marked by remembrance and restraint, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and local officials on Monday commemorated the eighth anniversary of Marawi’s liberation from the Daesh-inspired Maute group — a victory etched in blood, rubble, and memory.But behind the speeches of triumph lies a quieter story — one of restricted access, controlled narratives, and the journalists who once chronicled the country’s fierces…