Abu demands P10 M for teachers’ release

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  – Abu Sayyaf bandits holding two public school teachers captive are demanding P10 million in ransom for the hostages, authorities said yesterday.

Reynadit Silvano, 34, and Russel Bagonoc, 22, were seized last Thursday by six members of the Abu Sayyaf urban terror group as they were on their way to school in Talusan town in Zamboanga Sibugay province.

Police confirmed that the kidnappers have contacted the victims’ families, said Senior Superintendent Angelito Casimiro, city police director. 

Police said Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Wilter Palma has been informed about the development and the P10-million ransom demand.

The families of the teachers appealed to the kidnappers to release the victims, saying they are poor.

Meanwhile, an alleged Abu Sayyaf bandit tagged in the kidnapping of teachers and students in 2000 was arrested in Isabela City, Basilan Sunday. 

Abdillah Asalin, alias Abs, was collared by members of the government security forces at a videoke bar on Valderoza street in Barangay La Piedad.

Asalin’s arrest came as police and the military stepped up security in the city for the celebration of the provincial government’s 41st anniversary. 

The suspect was said to be among Abu Sayyaf bandits who kidnapped the teachers and students of Tumahubong Claret School in March 2000.

The incident also resulted in the killing of Fr. Rhoel Gallardo and three other teachers.