AFP: No surrender of MNLF fighters

MANILA - A military spokesman on Friday denied reports that members of the MNLF-Misuari Group surrendered last night. AFP public affairs chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala told ANC they are still in the process of negotiating with the Misuari group. Asked if 80 rebels have surrendered, he said: "There is none." He said their priority is the safe release of up to 180 hostages but they continue to monitor the movement of the MNLF. He said the lines of communication between the military and the rebels are now open. "I believe that the line of communication has been opened and our honorable Mayor Beng Climaco is on top of the situation. She is exhausting all efforts. Even the AFP, we are very willing, ready and able to undertake any military solution if needed. But of course, that's the last thing we want. What we want is to exhaust all peaceful means. We are very hopeful it will progress more within the day," he said. "Although our mission is containment, that doesn't stop us from doing our duty in protecting our people. We will continue to conduct necessary calibration needed to further protect our people although we are paving the way for negotiations," he added. He said the AFP was still confirming reports that 20 members of MNLF-Misuari group have been killed. The military earlier confirmed that Fr. Michael Ufana, who was held hostage last Monday, has been released. Zagala said Ufana is now undergoing stress debriefing and being given medical attention. ANC, September 13, 2013