Manila Hostage Video – Philippine News
According to CNN, at least eight hostages held for 10 hours appear to have survived the hijacking of a tour bus in the heart of the Philippines capital Monday. The hostage-taker was former police officer Rolando Mendoza. Mendoza was demanding his job back. He was dismissed a year ago for misconduct unbecoming a police officer. However, CNN affiliate ABS CBN said he was fired for extortion. The police have not confirmed the report.
Mendoza was wearing his uniform and carrying a rifle when he flagged down the tourist bus and asked for a ride, police spokesman Erwin Margarejo told reporters.
A tour guide for Hong Thai Travel tried to stop him from boarding the bus.
The hostages were calm but confused, Margarejo said. Around 2 p.m. (2 a.m. ET), the Philippine news channel ANC showed images of signs posted on the bus windshield saying, “Big deal will start after 3 p.m. today” and “3 p.m. today dead lock.”
But two hours later, there were no outward signs that the situation had changed.
Police cordoned off the area around the bus as they tried to negotiate, and sharpshooters were stationed nearby. Food was delivered to the hostages still on board.
Rolando Mendoza, died of a gunshot wound to the head, and at least two hostages were killed, police said.
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