Aquino denies report 80 MNLF rebels surrendered

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III himself belied a report that around 80 members of the Moro National Liberation Front in the Zamboanga City standoff surrendered Thursday evening.

"Mali ang report. Wala pang sumuko. May naaresto, initially may mga naitaboy na din," Aquino said in a press briefing in Zamboanga City on Friday aired over the radio.

Citing police intelligence sources and residents in Barangay Sta. Barbara, an online news website reported that around 70 to 80 MNLF armed followers of MNLF founder Nur Misuari surrendered in the said village.

The report said one of the hostages brought by the rebels was an unidentified priest.

A priest who was held captive and identified as Fr. Michael Ofana was freed by the rebels on Friday morning, according to authorities.

Related story: MNLF rebels free hostage priest

Santa Barbara, the village where the rebels allegedly surrendered, is one of the barangays seized by the rebels who are now in a five-day standoff with government troops.

The Zamboanga City Council has implemented forced evacuation in this village and in the barangays of Rio Hondo, Santa Catalina, Talon-Talon and Mampang.

President Benigno Aquino III flew to Zamboanga City on Friday to personally assess the situation on the ground and ensure that the affected civilians will receive government aid.

Aquino also warned the involved MNLF members in the siege that they will be dealt with by the government.