Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on September 10 that he will never negotiate with Maute terrorism group, even in exchange for the release of hostages in Marawi city.(Photo: EPA/VNA) Hanoi (VNA) – Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte announced on September 10 that he will never negotiate with Maute terrorism group, even in exchange for the release of hostages in Marawi city.
“They will be treated as criminals. If they surrender, they will be prosecuted. If they choose to fight, then the state has the right to kill them. Simply, they are rebelling”, he told the press.
He made the decision in connection with a renewed offer from former Marawi city mayor Omar Solitario to help in negotiating the hostage release. Solitario is on the President’s list of illegal drug traders.
The Office of the Presidential Advisor on the Peace Process (OPAPP) already ruled out shielding Solitario from prosecution, however, still ensured safety for him.
Meanwhile, military spokesman Brig.Gen. Restituto Padilla declared Solitario as a terrorist and warned that protecting him will extend conflict in Marawi.-VNA
VNA
