Palace rejects P5-M ransom for policewomen’s release

Malacañang has rejected the P5-million ransom demanded by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in exchange for the release of the two female police officers they abducted on April 29 in Patikul, Sulu.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque on Thursday said the government never acceded to terrorist demands, monetary or otherwise.

‘We don’t pay ransom’

“As far as I know, we don’t pay ransom,” Roque said when asked if the government would pay ransom for the release of PO2 Benierose Alvarez and PO1 Dinah Gumahad, both of the Zamboanga City Police.

The terrorist group also kidnapped the police officers’ companions, Jakosalem Ahamad Blas and Faizal Ahidji.

The four victims were aboard a tricycle when heavily armed men snatched them at gunpoint on Sunday afternoon in Patikul.

Misuari’s help

Philippine National Police Director General Oscar Albayalde confirmed on Wednesday that the ASG was demanding P5 million in exchange for the freedom of the two policewomen.

President Duterte earlier said he would reach out to Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chair Nur Misuari to ask for help in getting the four kidnap victims released or rescued.

Misuari’s MNLF faction has many fighters from Patikul.

“We all know that the MNLF still has a presence in Sulu. So I think the President would want the MNLF to assist in the recovery of these two hostage victims,” Roque said. — JULIE M. AURELIO