New video released of Canadian hostage in Philippines

From CTV News (May 22): New video released of Canadian hostage in Philippines

Abu Sayyaf militants in the Philippines have released a new video of the three hostages abducted from a resort last fall, including Canadian Robert Hall.

In the footage released Sunday, Hall is dressed in an orange T-shirt with handcuffs around his wrists. Two fellow captives, a man from Norway and a woman from the Philippines, are seated on the ground beside him.

Hall, who was captured last September on an island resort, pleads with Philippine president elect Rodrigo Duterte to “work on our behalf as soon as possible to get us out of here.”

“It appears my government has abandoned me and my family in this endeavour,” he adds.

Hall also addresses his family and friends. “I know you did everything you can. I truly appreciate it. I’m sorry I got you in this mess,” he said.

Global Affairs Canada issued a statement confirming that they are aware of the video.

“The Government’s first priority is the safety and security of its citizens,” the statement went on. “Therefore we will not comment or release any information which may compromise ongoing efforts or endanger the safety of the remaining hostages.”

The SITE Intelligence Group, a U.S.-based counterterrorism organization, also noted the new video on their website.

Canadian hostage John Ridsdel, who was kidnapped with the three others, was beheaded on April 25. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said at the time that the Canadian government does not and will not negotiate with terrorists.

Abu Sayyaf group formed in the early 1990s as an extension of an extremist Muslim separatist rebellion in the country’s south. It has since carried out deadly bombings, kidnappings and beheadings.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/new-video-released-of-canadian-hostage-in-philippines-1.2912858