Press Release
April 17, 2009

Press statement of Sen. Loren Legarda

On rescue of Abu Sayyaf captives

The way to be utilized in securing the freedom of Abu Sayyaf captives is a judgment call of the government. Nonetheless, negotiating for the release of the kidnap victims without payment of ransom remains the best as it avoids bloodshed.

I am bothered by the announcement that a provincial crisis committee formed to negotiate for the hostages' release had given the police and military the go signal to rescue the hostages.

Why would the government want to give advance notice o the Abu Sayyaf that government troops are moving on them to rescue the hostages?

Something like this is unheard of since giving the kidnappers an advance warning would allow them to prepare against the rescue efforts or, God forbids, harm the victims.

On palace studying ban on seamen

Surely, our government may consider banning the fielding of Filipino seamen to ships headed toward high-risk areas like the coast of Somalia, which has become notorious for piracy.

At the very least, our Department of Labor must insist on including in the contracts of our seamen a provision that would allow them to refuse being assigned to high-risk voyages, without the risk of being penalized or terminated by their shipping employers.

With 22 more Filipino mariners being seized by Somali pirates on top of the around 120 others being held captive, it is high time that our government takes decisive actions to protect our seamen.

On the death of Ted Failon's wife

I wish to extend my condolences to the Failon family, along with my prayers for the late Trinidad Etong. The family needs all the support at this most trying time, and none of the unnecessary controversies that are making a public spectacle of the police investigations of the incident.

The wheels of justice have to roll minus fanfare, and with utmost regard for human rights and the feelings of the bereaved. Observing fully the rule of law is a must, and no shortcuts must be taken in determining the truth about this tragedy.

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