THE military on Monday, September 25, revealed that four more hostages have been rescued in the fighting between the government troops and the Maute group continue in Marawi City.
Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez, Jr., Western Mindanao Command chief, confirmed that the troops rescued the four individuals several days ago at the main battle area in the besieged city of Marawi.
Galvez identified one of those rescued as Lordvin Acopio, a teacher, who was rescued on September 16 together with Father Teresito Suganob.
The three others who were rescued in the succeeding days were identified as Abdul Naser Ergas Mangondaya; Hadji Abdulah Necson Rakim Anunto; and, Kiram Dato Amkula Ampatoa.
Galvez said they withheld the announcement of rescue of the four hostages so as not to jeopardize the operations.
To date, a total of 1,734 people have been rescued by the government forces and other government agencies since the siege began on May 23.
The military earlier said there are still around 50 hostages who are still in the hands of the Maute group.
“The gun battle has been reduced and contained in the 10-hectare area of downtown Marawi,” Galvez said.
The fighting broke out on May 23 when the Maute group members went berserk and occupied several establishments when the government troops raided the hideout of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, who pledged allegiance to the Isis.
The Maute group is providing protection to Hapilon who fled from Basilan province to escape from the pursuing military forces. (SunStar Philippines)