A Negrense soldier who was deployed during the five-month siege of Marawi City recalled his experience liberating the city against the Islamic State-backed Maute terror group.

Philippine Army 303rd Infantry Brigade (303IB) First Sergeant of the 31st Division Reconnaissance Company, Technical Sergeant Jose Lumayno, said he received his deployment call on June 5, where he reported to his commanding officer to be briefed on the matter.

A resident of Sipalay City, he said there was both fear and excitement among his company.

Upon arrival at Camp Ranao in Marawi City, Lumayno was assigned to oversee security towards the rear of the main battle area. His company was later ordered to guard Dansalan College and Ninoy Aquino College, where some of the heaviest fighting was reported.

Lumayno recalled horrific instances encountered, including a captured Maute fighter being evacuated after his foot was blown off; along with having to carry sandbags in the middle of a battle area, where he was forced to dodge sniper fire.

“If you won’t die at the hands of the Maute, you could die by stray bullet,” he said. “If it’s not stray bullet, then it’s dengue.”

The soldier also recalled lack of sleep, scarce drinking water and food that usually came in the form of canned goods donated by non-government organizations.

Although not directly involved in the frontline actions, Lumayno said they are still proud to be considered Marawi liberators.

Last month, government forces neutralized the last remaining Maute stronghold in Marawi City, effectively ending the siege.

It is estimated around 962 terrorists and 165 government forces were killed.

Around 1,400 soldiers and police officers were also wounded in the conflict./DGB, WDJ