Press Release
April 3, 2009

Gordon to gov't: 'Better to talk than to shoot"

Independent Senator Richard J. Gordon today said the release of International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) worker Mary Jean Lacaba is proof that it is better to talk rather than shoot.

Gordon, chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), issued the statement as he expressed elation and gratitude over the safe and unconditional release of Lacaba from the hands of her captors for the past 78 days.

"Nene's safe and unconditional release is proof that talking things through, using all peaceful and diplomatic means available to resolve conflict, is better than using bullets and bombs," he said. Nene is Mary Jean's nickname.

"Life is precious, even the lives of those who have declared themselves as our enemies," he said, even as he lamented the death of three soldiers and injury to some 19 others who were then closing in the captors of the three ICRC workers.

Recently, an encounter between the military and the Abu Sayyaf Group holding the three ICRC hostages resulted in the death of three soldiers and wounding of 19 others.

An untold number of Abu Sayyaf members were also killed and wounded in the battle. The hostages, who were with the Abu Sayyaf during the fire fight, complained that they could hear bullets whizzing just inches above their heads.

"For the sake of the two remaining hostages, the government must firm up its commitment to use only peaceful means to assure their safe and unconditional release," said Gordon.

According to him, the unconditional release of Mary Jean bolstered hope that the release of the two other hostages, Swiss Andreas Notter and Italian Eugenio Vagni, would soon follow.

"It is a good sign. Perhaps the Abu Sayyaf, despite their reputation, can be talked and reasoned with. Perhaps they have been convinced that by releasing the hostages they are still holding is their only way out," said Gordon.

Stressing that mutual respect, understanding and acceptance is needed in dealing with the Abu Sayyaf, Gordon also added that the government should keep the "line of communication" open for the sake of the two ICRC workers.

"In seeking the release of Nene, Andreas Notter, and Eugenio Vagni, we hold firm the belief that keeping the lines of communication open at all times and the faith in the inherent goodness in each one of us all will enable us to succeed," he said.

"Our constant prayers as a nation of Christians and Muslims show that we all pray to one Supreme Power. It also proves that no matter what province we may come from or what heritage we may bear, we are all Filipinos first," he added.

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