Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced on Sunday the release of three Indonesian hostages of terror group Abu Sayyaf (ASG).
Through their passports, the Indonesians were identified as Ferry Arifin, 26, Edi Soryonu, 27, and Mohammad Mabrur Dahri, 27.
Upon their release, they were brought to Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo for medical examination and debriefing.
The Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) said the victims were crew members of the tugboat “Charles.” They were kidnapped from Simisa Island in Sulu last June 22.
According to the Wesmincom, the hostages were released to the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) at an undisclosed location in Sulu Saturday evening.
“The release of the kidnap victims is an offshoot of the ongoing military operations to sustain pressure against the ASG and the assistance of the MNLF,” Tan said.
Meanwhile, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, on behalf of the government, expressed gratitude for the efforts of the military and the MNLF in the release of the hostages.
In a statement, Dureza said MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari turned over the three indonesians to Sulu Gov. Toto Tan before noon Sunday.
“These recent breakthroughs were a convergence of efforts that President Duterte initiated — getting the cooperation of the MNLF, the local governments, the stakeholders, and the AFP through their ongoing military operations in the area,” Dureza said.
In a press release, Dela Vega said “relentless military operations will continue until all remaining hostages are released”.
A total of 16 hostages – nine Indonesians, six Filipinos, and a Norwegian – have been rescued or released since the military stepped up their operations against the Abu Sayyaf in July.
Twelve kidnap victims remain in the hands of the ASG, including five Malaysians, four Filipinos, two Indonesians and one Dutch.
CNN Philippines Senior Correspondents David Santos, Ina Andolong, and Digital Producer Arra Perez contributed to this report.
