A two-year-old girl was injured in a hostage situation in Barangay Maul Ilian, Marantao, Lanao del Sur on Monday, June 30, 2025.

Police responded immediately to the area after receiving information that the suspect identified as alias “Itlog” had taken his own daughter hostage with a bolo.

Authorities began negotiating with the suspect when they arrived.

After nearly two hours of negotiation, the suspect reportedly loosened his grip on the bolo, which gave operatives the chance to subdue and arrest him.

The child was rescued but sustained minor graze wounds in the neck and was rushed to the hospital for treatment. The child is now in stable condition, as of this writing.

Authorities are investigating the incident to determine the motive behind the hostage-taking.

The suspect was taken into police custody and may face charges for violation of the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act (RA 9262) and alarm and scandal.

“I commend the swift and courageous response of our Marantao police led by PMAJ EGERA. Their professionalism and dedication ensured the safe rescue of the child,” Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Director, Col. Caezar Cabuhat, said.