MANILA, Philippines – Government forces on Thursday thwarted the abduction of 3 teachers in Zamboanga City, a military spokesman said.

Lt. Col. Randolph Cabangbang, spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Western Mindanao Command, said patrolling military and police personnel caught 5 suspects armed with .45-caliber pistols forcibly taking three teachers at around 3:45 p.m. at the vicinity of Limaong Elementary School.

The victims were identified as Riza Dela Cruz, Lee Mariano and Lerna Cabilis. They are now in safe condition.

Cabangbang said the military and police fired warning shots, forcing the abductors to escape and abandon their victims.

"The armed men withdrew towards the shoreline leaving behind their would-be victims unharmed," Cabangbang said.

The military has yet to identify the group behind the botched abduction attempt.