Prelate resumes mission in Marawi

ILIGAN CITY, Philippines — A Catholic priest who was nearly killed when a local terrorist group laid siege to Marawi in 2017 has returned to the city to continue his mission.

Luisito “Chito” Suganob said he would continue to promote understanding and harmony among Christians, Maranaos and other non-Christian residents.

Suganob, former vicar general of the Catholic Prelature of St. Mary, said he would like to see the day when Marawi residents would no longer ask the Christians and visitors what they are doing in the city.

Suganob was taken hostage by the Mautes, a local terrorist group linked to the Islamic State.

During his captivity, Suganob was tasked to collect gunpowder for the terrorists.