Rebs demand P.5 M, radio for 2 tutors

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Abu Sayyaf rebels holding two public school teachers captive have demanded a P500,000 ransom and a handheld radio in exchange for the mentors' release, police confirmed yesterday.

Superintendent Akmadul Pangambayan, Basilan police director, said the rebels relayed their demands in a letter mailed to the families of Maybelyn Apolinario and Leticia Calo, who were snatched last March 9 at the Islamia Elementary School in Barangay Cabaluay, 15 kilometers east of this city.

Police said the rebels are keeping the two teachers in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.

Maj. Gen. Diomedio Villanueva, Southern Command chief, assured the teachers' families that the military will continue pursuing the kidnappers.