Hostaged Marawi priest Chito Soganub rescued

From Rappler (Sep 17): Hostaged Marawi priest Chito Soganub rescued

(UPDATED) Hostaged Marawi priest Father Teresito 'Chito' Soganub is rescued along with another hostage near Bato Mosque, one of 3 enemy strongholds that fell into government control over the past days

Hostaged Marawi priest Father Teresito "Chito" Soganub was rescued Saturday night, September 16, along with another hostage who is yet to be named.

Chief presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza shared the successful rescue of Soganub on his Facebook page on Sunday, September 7.

In a phone interview with Rappler, Dureza said Soganub was rescued near Bato Mosque. He said he was updated by his staff at the Office of the Presidential Adviser Peace Adviser based in Iligan City. (READ: Hostage-priest in Marawi often mistaken for Muslim)

A source on the ground also confirmed the priest's rescue to Rappler. The military has yet to issue a statement.

Fighters of the Maute local terror group were forced to abandon the historic Bato Mosque in Marawi, one of 3 enemy strongholds that fell into government control over the past days, as troops continue to press forward in the battle area.

The development comes as the military launched its "final push" in the Marawi battle area after penetrating what it believes to be the final defensive stand of the enemies.

“We urge the remaining terrorists, especially former hostages turned fighters, to endeavor to communicate with the military surrender while they still have time,” said Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año. (READ: Possible surrender by Maute recruits could end war sooner)



https://www.rappler.com/nation/182415-hostaged-marawi-priest-chito-soganub-rescued