Abu Sayyaf demands P10M in exchange for abducted teachers

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - The Abu Sayyaf group reportedly demanded a P10-million ransom in exchange for the safe release of public school teachers abducted last week from Talusan, Zamboanga Sibugay province. 

The police confirmed that the Abu Sayyaf kidnappers have already contacted the families of kidnap victims Reynadit Bagonoc Silvano, 34 years old, and Russel Bagonoc, 22 years old, both teachers and residents of Barangay Moalboal, Talusan.

“There was initial contact between the kidnappers and the family of the victims based on the information relayed to us as we were also alerted on the possible presence of the victims here,” City Police Office director Senior Superintendent Angelito Casimiro said. 

Silvano and Bagonoc were seized last Thursday morning by six members of the Abu Sayyaf urban terror group based in Basilan and Sulu.

Police reported that Zamboanga Sibugay Governor Wilter Palma was also informed that the kidnappers have contacted with the victims’ families.

The families of the victims appealed to the kidnappers to release the victims, adding that they are poor.