Ian Jasper Calalang’s parents thank media for help, ask for privacy after son’s return

MANILA, Philippines — After “agonizing” for weeks over their son’s disappearance, the parents of Ian Jasper Calalang on Wednesday requested privacy as they rebuild their lives after his return.

“Words cannot express how relieved we truly are to be reunited with him,” Calalang’s parents, Randy and Nenet, said in a statement e-mailed to the media.

“And though we are mentally drained and emotionally exhausted—our lives severely affected—we now take great comfort in being able to see, talk, and hug Ian again. This is the single most important thing for us at this point,” they said.

Ian returned home “safely and and physically unharmed last February 1, Monday, at 11 in the evening, after having gone missing since Jan. 12, 8 a.m., when we last communicated with him via text message.”

“As we slowly recover from the pain and suffering caused by this situation, we ask the media and the public to give Ian and our family the time and respect our privacy as we rebuild our lives together and reconnect with Ian,” the Calalangs said.

They thanked everyone who sent comforting words and helped them through their ordeal.  SFM