2 Indonesian hostages of ASG rescued

The Philippine Marines in the Joint Task Force Sulu have rescued two Indonesian hostages of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) on Thursday morning.

The foreigners were identified as Saparuddin Koni and Sawal Maryam.

Task Force Commander Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana said the military was able to get hold of the Indonesians during an encounter with the bandits in Barangay Bunot, Indanan at about 6:30 am.

The Indonesians were brought to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Hospital for medical examinations.

Meanwhile, during the same hour, 5 soldiers from the Philippine Army were injured in another battle with ASG in Talipao.

5 ASG members were killed by government troops during the clash.