2 hostages escape from Maute terrorists in Marawi

Two hostages of the ISIS-inspired Maute group managed to escape as government forces retake the Bato Mosque and the Amaitul Islamiya Marawi Foundation (JIMF) building in Marawi City.

Radio dzBB's  Benjie Liwanag reported on Sunday morning that the two hostages were able to flee at about 11 p.m. on Saturday, as government forces were maneuvering to completely seize the two major Maute strongholds.

Authorities have identified one of the hostages but refused to reveal his name.

Liwanag reported that they are still confirming if Marawi priest Father Teresito “Chito” Suganob is one of the hostages who escaped.

As of posting time, GMA News Online was trying reach AFP spokesperson Brigadier  General Restituto Padilla for his comment.

Suganob, vicar general of the city's Cathedral of Our Lady Help of Christians, was abducted by the Maute group with other parishioners on May 23.

Government forces were able to seize the Bato Mosque, JIMF, and surrounding buildings at about 5 p.m. after a fierce five-hour firefight.

"This enormous AFP gain further weakened the terrorist group by denying them their erstwhile command and control hub," said AFP Chief General Eduardo Año in a statement.

"As follow up and clearing operations continue, we expect the enemy to yield more previously occupied positions, but not without a fight. We are ready for that," he added.

Four government personnel were wounded during the operation. Authorities have yet to account the fatalities on the terrorists' side.

As of 7 p.m. of September 14, a total of 670 Maute gunmen, 47 civilians, and 147 government personnel were killed.

Meanwhile, a total of 692 firearms and 11 unexploded ordnance had also been recovered. —LBG, GMA News