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Bishop calls out government over kidnappings

Bishop calls out government over kidnappings
Published: May 24, 2012 07:00 AM GMT
Updated: May 24, 2012 07:00 AM GMT

Bishop Martin Jumoad of Basilan today urged President Benigno Aquino to address the growing incidents of kidnappings in Mindanao. “The problem with this government is it is too much focused on the impeachment of [Chief Justice Renato Corona] and neglects other concerns,” the prelate told Radyo Veritas. At least six foreign nationals, including Lorenzo Vinsiguerra from Switzerland, Evold Horn from Holland, Australian Warren Rodwell, Toshio Ito from Japan, Indian Biju Veetil and another unnamed captive, remain in the hands of the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf. News reports yesterday quoted sources in the intelligence community as saying that the Abu Sayyaf is demanding 50 million pesos (US$1.1 million) ransom for the release of the hostages. Most of the hostages are believed to be in Basilan and Sulu provinces, known to be strongholds of the terrorist group.

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