An Abu Sayyaf leader has sent surrender feelers, saying he will also turn over the two American missionaries and a Filipina nurse being held hostage in Basilan, a radio report said.

Basilan information officer Cris Puno told DzBB that Isnilon Hapilon admitted that the rebels are exhausted and cannot afford more casualties from military operations.

Puno quoted Hapilon as saying in his letter that they are ready to negotiate for the freedom of the remaining hostages. They will agree to an unconditional surrender if an emissary from Malacanang, the presidential palace, is sent to negotiate.

Puno said the joint military training exercise between the U.S. and the Philippine military has triggered the Abu Sayyaf's plan to turn themselves in, and give up Marcia and Martin Burnham and nurse Deborah Yap.

He did not say when Abu Sayyaf leaders will give up, or when they will turn over their hostages.

Meanwhile, Armed Forces spokesperson Brig. Gen. Edilberto Adan said Intelligence reports confirmed that Abu Sayyaf leader Abu Sabaya had turned over the hostages to Hapilon's group.