AFP: Airstrikes pound Isnilon Hapilon’s known position in Marawi

The Armed Forces has expressed confidence that air strikes launched on Wednesday morning hit the hideout in Marawi City of Abu Sayyaf Group leader Isnilon Hapilon.

According to a 24 Oras report by Marisol Abdurahman, the military launched air strikes at 6:30 a.m. using FA-50 fighter jets.

"That's a big progress when it comes to our tactical operations. It means makaka-push forward po 'yung mga tropa natin," said Colonel Romeo Brawner.

The report said 47 local terrorists were positioned in Bato Mosque and nearby areas.

A military source said Hapilon usually stayed in the said mosque.

"This will help in our campaign to get rid of the terrorists," Brawner said. 

The conflict in Marawi City started on May 23 following an attack by the Maute group, which prompted President Rodrigo Duterte's declaration of martial law in Mindanao.

The ongoing conflict has already resulted in the death of 639 local terrorists, 145 soldiers and policemen, and 45 civilians. —Anna Felicia Bajo/NB, GMA News