MNLF rebels free hostage priest

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - Rogue members  of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) that attacked Zamboanga City freed Fr. Michael Ofana, one of their hostages held as human shields, on Friday morning, authorities said.

Ofana, clad in white shirt and denim with a scarf wrapped around his neck, walked to his  freedom along the intersection of Lustre and Sta. Catalina road about 6:30 a.m.

City Police director Senior superintendent Jose Chiquito Malayo, who received Ofana on site, confirmed the victim was the hostage priest but declined to be interviewed.

Ofana left behind his sister and father who remained captives by the rebels still battling the government troops.