Village exec’s son released

ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY—The SON of a village official in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, who was snatched on March 11, was freed Saturday after his family gave money to the captors that authorities refused to call ransom.

Senior Supt. Ruben Cariaga, Zamboanga Sibugay police chief, said 21-year-old Mel John Auditor, son of Magdaup village councilor Gabriel Auditor, was handed over by soldiers to his parents after he was picked up by the soldiers in a remote area of Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay past 5 a.m. Cariaga said the victim’s parents paid P70,000 in board and lodging fees, a euphemism for ransom.

Another source, however, said the family paid a much higher amount—P200,000.

Cariaga said the family sought military help in picking up the victim after they were informed of his release yesterday.

Col. Gerry Barrientos, head of the Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade, said the victim appeared “OK but very pale and thin.” Julie Alipala, Inquirer Mindanao