Zamboanga City, September 22 – For the families of the hostages of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), nothing was more pleasing to hear than the announcement of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman that their loved ones are among those who have escaped from their captors.

Families rejoiced as Secretary Soliman loudly read the names of the 88 hostages who were about to be reunited with their loved ones after ten days in captivity.

Before finally joining their families, the 88 hostages were taken to Camp Batalla for Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD). CISD is a psycho-social intervention that helps persons cope with their traumatic experiences.

Secretary Soliman said that the CISD is necessary to ensure that the hostages will be relieved from all forms of stress to enable them to regain their normal social and mental functioning.

A 17- year old hostage from Zamboanga Sibugay, who was rescued during the crossfire, recounted how he and his fellow captives spent their days with the rebel group. “During the first two days, we were all crying and scared that we might get killed in the crossfire between government forces and the MNLF-Misuari faction.  After a few days, everyone seemed to have gotten used to the exchange of gunshots.” He also added that they were hopeful that they will soon be released but at the same time they conditioned themselves that each day might be their last.

The hostages and their loved ones were very emotional upon seeing each other.

“I cannot wait to see my son. During the days he was held captive by the MNLF, I could neither sleep nor eat well.  Finally, the long wait is over, I can already embrace my son and tell him how much we love him,” stated by a mother who waited for her son to be released.

Secretary Soliman was herself teary eyed as she announced the names of the hostages.

“I feel for the families who suffered the agony of waiting for their loved ones to return safely,” Secretary Soliman said.

Secretary Soliman said she was pleased to see the smiles on the faces of the hostages and their respective parents. ###