Fr Angel Calvo reports that the International Red Cross workers are still in the hands of their abductors. The situation is “confusing” and there are no “certainties” on their fate. No confirmation of a ransom paid for the release of the Philippine volunteer. Manila expresses its “hopes” for a release “sooner rather than later”.

Manila (AsiaNews) – “It is presumed that the other two Red Cross workers are still alive.  At the moment there are no further details, official or otherwise”. That is the latest information given to AsiaNews by Fr.  Angel Calvo, a Claretian missionary and president of Peace Advocates Zamboanga (Paz), on the front line of the hostage issue.   He explains that the situation is still “confusing” adding that there are “no certainties” regarding the fate of Andreas Notter and Eugenio Vagni, even if it is highly probable that they are “still alive and in the hands of their captors”.

Father Calvo reports that today “a mass will be celebrated in the Cathedral of Zamboanga City”, presided over by bishop Valles, attended by members of the International Red Cross.  “We are praying for the fate of the hostages – commented the priest – so they too will soon be released”.

Yesterday a group of extremists linked to the group Abu Sayyaf released Philippine hostage Mary Jean Lacaba. The woman, deeply tried by her experience, but in a good state of health, seems to have confirmed that the other tow hostages are still alive and in captivity.  “It is still unknown if a ransom was paid – explains Fr. Calvo – the authorities have not confirmed this.  At the moment there are few details coming through”.

Manila has expressed its “hope” that the hostages will be freed “sooner rather than later”.  The rebels are feeling the “military pressure” commented Ronaldo Puno, Minister for Home Affairs, according to whom many affiliates have already “abandoned the group”.

 

• ICRC
• PHILIPPINES
• HOSTAGE
• RELEASE
• PRAYERS
• ABU
• SAYAAF