Ces Drilon and 2 companions are finally free
ABS-CBN television reporter Ces Drilon and 2 companions are finally free after nine days of abduction by suspected Abu Sayyaf terrorist group in Sulu province. Television reporter Ces Drilon, cameraman Jimmy Encarnacion and Mindanao State University professor Octavio Dinampo were released around 11 p.m. Tuesday.
According to Director General Avelino Razon Jr, Philippine National Police chief “They were picked up by Jun Isnaji and secured by four policemen at Sitio Danasi, lower Sinumaan, Talipao, Sulo and brought to the house of Mayor Alvarez Isnaji”. Indanan Mayor Alvarez Isnaji was selected by the kidnappers to negotiate for the release of the hostages.
Few days ago ABS-CBN cameraman, Angelo Valderama was released after a 2 million ransom was reportedly paid for “board and lodging.”
Ces Drilon and her 2 companions are in good conditions, but they will undergo thorough medical check and debriefing before they will flown back to Manila.
Sources said that there were no “ransom” paid but the kidnappers were promised to given a livelihood assistance. The kidnappers demanded before 15 million ransom for the release of Drilon and her 2 companions and set a Tuesday noon deadline but extended it indefinitely.
Bandits Abu Sayyaf were linked to both the al-Qaeda and Jema’ah Islamiyah who were responsible for terrorism attacks in the Philippines.
