ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits kidnapped a principal of a public school in Basilan yesterday, officials said.
Benita Lotonio of Manggal Elementary School in Sumisip town was in a passenger jeepney along with some teachers when five gunmen seized her at around 6:20 a.m. in the village of Libug.
Lotonio and the teachers were on their way to Isabela City when the kidnapping occurred, said Basilan school district superintendent Norhaya Abdurahim.
Villagers said the gunmen – said to be under Juhaibil Alamsirul, alias Abu Kik – took Lotonio at gunpoint and left the teachers unharmed.
The teachers returned to the town proper escorted by authorities.
Basilan police director Senior Superintendent Mario Dapilloza refused to comment on the kidnapping.