Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and President Peace Adviser, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., returned to Marawi City on Tuesday to commemorate the country's liberation against the Daesh-inspired Maute terrorist group on 17 October 2017.

In his speech, Brawner recalled that he was then fresh from studying at the US Army War College when he volunteered to become part of the government's efforts to liberate the city from the influence of Islamic State-linked local terrorist organization.

"We told the story of Marawi City, the real story, not the story of ISIS. By doing so, we got the sympathy of our country and the world. We got the support of Filipinos and people abroad," he said.

At the height of the siege, Brawner was previously designated was designated as the Task Force Marawi spokesperson and deputy commander.

Galvez was then the commander of the Western Mindanao Command, among the generals who led the country's fight against the Maute group. He was later designated as the AFP chief of staff when the government was rehabilitating Marawi City from the chaos brought about by the conflict.

"On our way here this morning, we were reminded not of death and destruction, but of courage, compassion, and resilience. So today, my brothers and sisters, we remember the sacrifices that our people made," said Brawner.

Both officials offered a wreath-laying ceremony at the headquarters of the 103rd Infantry Brigade at the Heroes Wall in honor of those who perished in the attack.

In a media interview shortly after the event, Branwer told reporters that the AFP is ready to assist the government in repatriating Filipinos affected by the conflict by the conflict in Israel and Gaza.

"As far as the AFP is concerned, we already have a plan in case the government orders us to help in the repatriation of Filipinos affected by the conflict in Israel and Gaza. Our air assets are ready to assist," he said.