Palace: ‘Don’t take Drilon kidnappers’ deadline lightly’
But stands firm on no-ransom policy
By Maila Ager
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 15:38:00 06/16/2008
Filed Under: Ces Drilon kidnapping
MANILA, Philippines -- Malacañang on Monday stood firm on its no-ransom policy even as it acknowledged that the ultimatum set by the kidnappers of broadcast journalist Ces Drilon and two companions should not be taken lightly.
“The no ransom policy of the government stands. It doesn’t change,” incoming Press Secretary Jesus Dureza said at a press briefing in the Palace.
The kidnappers of Drilon, her cameraman Jimmy Encarnacion, and Mindanao State University professor and peace advocate Octavio Dinampo, in Sulu have set a deadline of noon Tuesday for the payment of a P15-million ransom.
Indanan town Mayor Alvarez Isnaji, who has been negotiating for the safe release of the victims, said Drilon, a television reporter for the ABS-CBN network, called at around 8:30 a.m. Monday, relaying the abductors' demand.
Drilon and her crew were snatched, along with Dinampo, their guide, Sunday last week by what authorities say are members of the Abu Sayyaf.
Another cameraman, Angelo Valderama, was freed on June 12 after the kidnappers were paid P100,000.
“I have direct contact with some people in Sulu and, evidently, it’s confirmed there is demand for ransom. We don’t wish to entertain this as far as government is concerned” Dueza said.
Although saying it was saddened by the kidnappers’ deadline, ABS-CBN says it is also maintaining a no-ransom policy. Dureza thanked the network for taking the position.
However, Dureza said the Abu Sayyaf’s “long record of atrocities” means their ultimatum should not be taken lightly.
“I’m not so sure about whether I know exactly what’s in the minds of these terrorists but the ultimatum is something we should not take lightly,” he said.
“They have a long record of atrocities and everybody knows this so we take that into heart and we hope Ces and the group that are still being held there will be able to return home safely,” he added.
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