Duterte asks NPAs to release Manero’s brod

DAVAO CITY – Mayor Rodrigo Duterte appealed yesterday to the New People’s Army to release Jose Manero, the brother of convicted priest killer Norberto, who was abducted by communist rebels on May 14 in Barangay Pangyan, Calinan District, this city.

“I would ask those holding Manero captive to please release him immediately,” said Duterte during his ‘Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa’ weekly TV show yesterday.

Manero, a retired Army master sergeant, was reportedly taken by the group of Leoncio Pitao, also known as Commander Parago.

Manero reportedly worked as security consultant of the Lorenzo Group of Companies which has banana and pineapple plantations in Calinan district.

Duterte likewise pointed out Manero’s fault could be just because he used to work as a member of the Philippine Army.

However, reports hinted Manero was taken by Pitao’s group because of an alleged blood debt, particularly between the NPAs and the dreaded fanatical Ilaga group that the Maneros founded.

“I understand the person (Manero) has not done anything against the movement except for his previous work. I do not think he has done any violation against human rights,” the mayor added.

This developed as a younger brother of Pitao, identified as Danilo Pitao, was reportedly killed late Friday afternoon by two unidentified armed men in Barangay Katuparan, Tagum City, Davao del Norte.

The rebel leader’s brother was said to have been on his way home on board a tricycle when the suspects suddenly shot him.