More people brought to safety from battle zone

At least 79 people trapped in the Zamboanga battle zone were turned over by the military to the police early morning Tuesday, September 17. Calling the first batch of 64  “unverified hostages,” city councilor BG Guingona said they were picked up at the Southern College along Pilar Street, near Sta Catalina, where heavy fighting has occurred. They were followed by two subsequent batches of 5 and 10 people, respectively. Government troops and the remaining Moro National Liberation Front rebels led by Habier Malik exchanged fire Monday, September 16. That same day, two batches of hostages totalling 36 were either released or rescued. There were at least 33 hostages released prior to Monday. The siege entered its 9th day on Tuesday, September 17.

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