Philippines rescues nearly 80 hostages from Islamic rebels

Philippine troops rescue 78 civilians held by IS-linked Maute militants from a medical center in Marawi City.

Maute rebels in Marawi city, Philippines. Photo: Rappler.

"As of 3 p.m. on May 24, the Amai Pakpak Hospital, where Maute militants took over and held 78 civilians hostage, was secured," Rappler quoted Jo-Ann Petinglay, spokesperson for the Western Mindanao Command, as saying. The 78 civilians included eight patients, 49 construction workers and 21 hospital staff.

The Philippines has also rescued many civilians from other facilities attacked by Maute. However, at least four people, including a priest, are still in the hands of the rebels.

The Philippine military and the Maute group began clashes in Marawi on the evening of May 23, after security forces launched an operation to capture Isnilon Hapilon, believed to be the leader of IS in Southeast Asia. According to the Philippine military, five soldiers were killed, 13 militants were killed, and 31 soldiers were injured in the clashes.

The Philippine military has sent more troops to Marawi. The movement of troops has been hampered by residents fleeing the city, making roads impassable. About 50% of the additional troops arrived in Marawi on the afternoon of May 24. The rest are expected to arrive today.

Maute rebels in Marawi, Philippines

According to VNE