MANILA - Malacañang said the military's 8-hour "humanitarian pause" in Marawi City emphasizes respect and solidarity with Muslims celebrating Eid al-Fitr or the end of Ramadan.

The temporary halt of military offensives in Marawi City will only last from from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday.

But if the security of government forces is put in jeopardy, the safety of civilians under threat or terrorists fire at the troops, the humanitarian pause will be lifted.

"This humanitarian ceasefire on part of the military and the government underscores our solidarity with our Muslim brethren as they celebrate the end of Ramadan," said Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella.

Military spokesman Brigadier General Restituto Padilla earlier called the humanitarian pause a "unity move" with the Islamic community.

Padilla assured that the lull in fighting would not give the Maute group an opportunity to regroup.

"It is a sincere gesture which shows respect to the Muslim faith and acknowledges our cultural diversity of our society," Abella added.