A Philippine priest says that the key to the release "is an economic agreement with the kidnappers." For two weeks there have contacts with the volunteer of the Red Cross, but the government wants to inspire optimism. The wife is "very concerned" and "begs" prayers for deliverance.

Manila (AsiaNews) - At the moment there is "more hope than certainties" regarding the fate of Eugene Vagni, the delegate of the International Committee of the Red Cross who was kidnapped January 15th  by the Abu Sayyaf group on the island of Sulu in the Philippines. Speaking to AsiaNews Fr Angel Calvo, a Claretian missionary and president of Peace Advocates Zamboanga (Paz), at the forefront of the issue of the hostages says that the "key to resolving the matter is an economic agreement with the kidnappers." Vagn's wife has a made a widespread appeal expressing the "concern of family members" and asking for "prayers and action” for his release.

In recent days, Ronaldo Puno, Philippine Minister of the Interior, said that "Vagni is alive and is well enough." Father Calvo explains that the government "wants to infuse optimism on the issue" and "keep hopes up” for a positive outcome soon. The priest added that the military has continued operations in the area and started to re-open channels for dialogue with the kidnappers. "Hope remains – says Fr. Calvo - but the kidnapping has gone on too long and there has been no direct contacts for more than two weeks. The key to the issue remains an economic agreement with the kidnappers ".

Meanwhile the wife of Eugene Vagni has launched an appeal for her husband’s release. "Every day that passes it is becoming increasingly difficult for me and my family, friends and colleagues of Eugene," writes Khwanruean Phungket. The woman is "extremely concerned" about the fate of her husband and asks "anyone who can do something" to "help us now." "The suffering and agony of Eugene and his family – she continues - not knowing when this tragedy will finally end is too much to bear." Vagni’s wife asks the Italian government to "find a solution" and reiterated that her husband’s  "health conditions are not good. I ask all Italian citizens to pray for the release of my husband. "

Vagni’s family do not hide their bitterness over the shape the evolving situation is taking and does not want to make further declarations, revealing their growing sense of frustration.

• Philippine
• Red
• Cross
• italy
• Vagn
• islam
• fundamentalist
• Abu
• Sayyaf
• kidnappings
• money
• seizures