Abstract: A particulate filter for trapping particulate filter which is contained in exhaust gas is arranged in an engine exhaust passage. The particulate filter is provided with exhaust gas inflow passages and exhaust gas outflow passages which are alternately arranged via porous partition walls. Movement promoting control is performed to promote movement of the ash which deposits on the inner circumferences of the exhaust gas inflow passages to the rear parts of the exhaust gas inflow passages. The pressure loss of the particulate filter is detected. When the detected pressure loss is larger than a predetermined upper limit value, PM removal control is performed to remove the particulate matter from the particulate filter.