In the southern Philippines, a bloody conflict with radical Islamists has been raging for 50 years. The terrorists of the Abu Sayyaf group have also pledged allegiance to the so-called Islamic State. They organise themselves on the islands of the complex border region between the Philippines and Malaysia. Although the war is officially over and martial law was lifted in January 2020, its aftermath continues to breed terror and kidnappings. Kidnapping is a lucrative business here, and a failed deal often ends with the victims being beheaded. Tourists have also fallen victim to this, resulting in fatalities. The armed conflict reached its grim peak in 2017 with the so-called Battle of Marawi. After five months of intense urban warfare, 1.000 fallen IS fighters left deep scars in the country's history. Reporter Samuel Häde travelled to the southern Philippines, offering insight into this forgotten conflict: How much influence does IS still wield? What is the current situation? He speaks with hostages, refugees, and the military, exploring the war-torn landscapes.