Zambo police chief freed by MNLF fighters

MANILA, Philippines - The police chief of Zamboanga City who was earlier  abducted by  Moro National Liberation Front rebels was freed.

A tweet from the @zambocitygovt said the Crisis Management Committee has confirmed the release of Senior Superintendent Jose Chiquito Malayo.

The tweet also said some of MNLF members who took Malayo and his men also surrendered.

The police reported that Malayo was making arrangements with MNLF fighter for the release of civilian hostages when Malayo was abducted at gunpoint by the rebels.

Malayo rushed to the mangrove area in Barangay Mampang to secure the safety of civilian hostages held by MNLF members.

Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II also confirmed Malayo's release.

"Happy to inform that Zambo City Director Senior Superintendent Chiquito Malayo has successfully convinced 23 MNLF fighters to come into fold of the law," Roxas said.