Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he has "reason to believe" that extremists in the Philippines have killed a second Canadian hostage, Robert Hall.

Canadians Robert Hall (left) and John Ridsdel are seen in a still image taken from an undated militant video.

"While Canadian officials are working closely with authorities in the Philippines to formally confirm Mr. Hall's death, we have compelling reason to believe that reports to this effect are, unfortunately, true," said a statement from Trudeau's office Monday morning.

"The vicious and brutal actions of the hostage-takers have led to a needless death," the statement said. "Canada holds the terrorist group who took him hostage fully responsible for this cold-blooded and senseless murder."

Abu Sayyaf had held Hall hostage since September. The Filipino terror group demanded $16 million in ransom by Monday's date, June 13.

In April, Abu Sayyaf beheaded Canadian hostage John Ridsdel after a similar ransom demand was not met.

Trudeau has repeatedly said that Canada doesn't pay ransom because doing so would help finance terrorism and encourage extremists to take more Canadian hostages.

"We are more committed than ever to working with the Government of the Philippines and international partners to pursue those responsible for these heinous acts and bring them to justice, however long it takes," Trudeau's statement said.

Trudeau expressed his condolences to Hall's friends and family, and asked the media to respect their privacy.