Maute group still in control of Mapandi bridge in Marawi City

The Maute group is still in control of Mapandi Bridge on the eighth day of the battle between government forces and the terrorist group, preventing complete access of security forces to Marawi City.

According to a report by GMA News' Emil Sumangil on "24 Oras," the Philippine Army has already penetrated and occupied 85 percent of Marawi City in their attempt to clear areas of members of the terror group.

Mapandi is considered the gateway to Marawi City proper.

The security forces believe Maute members are in the area but they are finding it difficult to enter the area because the group's hostages are used as human shields while there are snipers positioned in strategic vantage points.

Aside from air attacks, ground troops also launched an assault on areas that are under the control of the terror group.

Sumangil reported that military operations will continue through the night to eliminate the snipers and to gain control of the bridge. — Rie Takumi/BAP, GMA News