Malacañang and and Vice President Leni Robredo on Tuesday said they have full confidence in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) in handling the Maute group in Marawi City.

In a statement, presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said President Rodrigo Duterte’s priority is the nation’s interest.

“[The President] has full confidence in AFP/ PNP's management of the situation; and we ask that the residents take all precaution, cooperate with authorities, and stay calm,” Abella said.

Robredo, meanwhile, said she is communicating with the AFP, which said it has the situation under control in Marawi City.

“Sama-sama nating ipagdasal ang ating mga sundalo na ipinaglalaban ang ating mga kababayan sa Marawi. Ipinagdarasal din natin ang ating mga kapwa Pilipinong nasa gitna ng bakbakan,” Robredo said in a statement.

Robredo’s office is also preparing for relief operations for those affected by clashes in the area.

“Hinihikayat natin ang lahat ng sektor na may kakayahan na magbigay ng anumang tulong na tumugon sa lalong madaling panahon,” she said.

“Huwag tayong matakot. Manindigan tayo. At magtiwala tayong mananaig ang kapayapaan.”