Foreign Secretary statement on the Philippines

On Friday 4 October, Alan and Wilma Hyrons, two British nationals, were abducted in the Southern Philippines.

On the morning of Monday 25 November, the Philippines’ Armed Forces carried out a military operation on the island of Sulu that resulted in their successful rescue.

The British Ambassador to the Philippines has spoken by telephone to Alan and Wilma.

The Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said:

I am pleased to confirm that both Alan and Wilma Hyrons are safe and well, and being looked after by the Philippine authorities.

We worked closely with the Government of the Philippines on Alan and Wilma’s case over the last two months. I am very grateful for their tremendous efforts. We are in particular grateful to their Armed Forces for their courage throughout a difficult operation which resulted in Alan and Wilma’s release.

Foreign Office officials have been in close contact with Alan and Wilma’s family throughout this ordeal. We request their privacy during this emotional time.

Further information

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