Philippines gives Abu Sayyaf kidnappers life in prison for Malaysia resort abductions

In April 2000, members of Islamist extremist group Abu Sayyaf kidnapped at gunpoint 21 people from a holiday resort on the Malaysian island of Sipadan.

The hostages endured months of captivity in the jungles of Jolo, about 955km (515 miles) south of Manila, until they were ransomed for millions of dollars.

“This conviction is a reflection of the unwavering efforts of the DOJ in upholding the rule of law without fear or falter,” the Philippine Department of Justice said in a statement.