A Filipino resort worker kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf from a Malaysian resort three years ago, was freed when troops met and had a fire fight with the Abu Sayyaf holding him. However, the hostage (Ronald Ullah) is a native of Jolo (where many Abu Sayyaf come from) and it was suspected that he had joined Abu Sayyaf. The army is not saying anything and Ullah is apparently being questioned on the matter.