TALIPAO, Philippines (4 May 2000) -- Despite radio reports of hostage deaths and escapes, all 21 hostages are still alive and captive according to military officials. Muslim rebels have divided the hostages into five groups in a small area which has been surrounded by government troops. The hostages have appealed to the Philippine government to pull back their troops so that negotiations for their release can begin. © CDNN - CYBER DIVER NEWS NETWORK | 
