ISIS News: Filipino Militants Reveal 4 Hostages in New Video Flaunting Flags Similar to ISIS
As airstrikes and bloodshed continue to batter Syria and its people, a new breed of Islamic State rebels have seemingly started to strengthen roots in the Philippine islands as a new video was released showing four hostages who appear to be those kidnapped last month in the southern area of the country.
One of the hostages who wasn't allowed to speak in the video was a Filipina, while the other three were all foreigners who appear to be Robert Hall, John Ridsdel, and Kjartan Sekkingstad.
All three foreigners pleaded Canada and the Philippines to get them out of the militants' hands as a group of armed men behind them held weapons. At one point in the video, a masked militant held what appeared to be a machete close to Ridsel's neck.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
According to CNN, banners that look very similar to the Islamic State's black and white flag were also shown in the video. Although the hostage-takers did not identify themselves in the clip, many local outlets and authorities believe they may be members of the Abu Sayyaf Islamist group, a rebel army known for their dominance in the area.
Co. Restituto Padilla of the Armed Forces of the Philippines spoke to journalists on Wednesday saying the authorities are evaluating the newly released video. "As of now, our current (military) posture is still the same. (Our) posture remains, where our troops are, where our police are, they will remain to be where they are," he said.
While he did not comment on the identity of the kidnappers, he clarified that the Philippine government "is doing everything and coordinating with all agencies concerned locally and outside the country."
There were no monetary demands laid out, but in the video, a militant demanded military movements cease. If granted by the government, the rebels will then start opening doors for negotiating the hostages' release.
The hostages were abducted at the Oceanview Resort on Samal Island on Sept. 21.
