After one month of captivity, Irish priest Father Michael Sinnot, has been released by his captors early Thursday morning in Zamboanga City, the military said.

Sinnott’s release took place on the day US Department of State Secretary Hillary Clinton is scheduled to arrive in the country.

Initial information released by Armed Forces officials show the priest was released at around 4:35 a.m. No ransom was paid, according to the officials.

Information further show Fr. Sinnott was turned over to members of the government’s cease fire committee by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Sinnott was seized October 11 by heavily-armed men frome the Columban house in Pagadian City. His abductors were later identified by authorities as pirates involved in a series of criminal activities.

Government authorities said Sinnott was eventually turned over group believed headed by a rogue MILF commander.

Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincon) chief, Maj. Gen. Ben Dolorfino said Fr. Sinnott appeared in good condition.

Asked to comment on the timing of the release, a military official said, “Parang nakakagulat nga na yung timing na ngayon darating si Sec. Clinton ay pinakawalan si Fr. Sinnott.”

Dolorfino said they are now waiting for the Fokker plane that would bring the priest to Manila.

Sinnott will be brought straight to Malacanang .