MANILA, Philippines – Italian Red Cross worker Eugenio Vagni contacted his family only twice in June, as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) renewed its appeal to release the remaining hostage, 170 days after his abduction in Sulu province.

In a statement posted on the ICRC website, Alain Aeschlimann, head of operations for East Asia, South-East Asia and the Pacific, said that Vagni was able to speak to his wife last June 2 and 26, and the phone calls lasted for only a few minutes.

“It has now been more than five months since he was abducted. We know that being able to speak with his loved ones over the telephone is extremely precious to him. With more determination than ever, we are appealing for his immediate and unconditional safe release. His suffering must end at once,” Aeschlimann said.

When asked about Vagni’s overall health condition, Aeschlimann said the Italian volunteer “feels tired,” but continued to “show remarkable strength in the face of great adversity. His family is also displaying great stoicism.”

ICRC has refused to further provide information on Vagni’s health as it was a personal and private matter, Aeschlimann said.

He also expressed concern with the ongoing clashes in the province but said that ICRC was continuing its efforts to solve the crisis and for Vagni’s release.