Press Release
May 8, 2009

Gordon maintains: Vagni's release can be attained peacefully

Independent Senator Richard J. Gordon today said he remains hopeful that the release of International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) worker Eugenio Vagni could still be achieved through peaceful means.

Gordon, chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNCR), made the statement as he expressed profound sympathy over the deaths of Sulu provincial commander PSSupt. Julasirim Kasim, and three others who were killed during an encounter with the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).

"We extend our sincere condolences to the family of PSSupt. Kasim, his brother, and the two other police escorts who were killed during an encounter with the Abu Sayyaf. We honor them, including those who were wounded in the encounter, for their valiant efforts to defend and uphold the peace and order situation in Mindanao" he said.

On Thursday, PSSupt. Kasim, his brother Rosalin and two police escorts, identified as SPO3 Jammahari and SPO3 Abdurajan, were gunned down by members of the ASG near Maimbung town.

"Despite this incident, we remain hopeful that we can secure the safe, immediate and unconditional release of our colleague, Eugenio, through peaceful means. Let us keep the lines of communication open," Gordon said.

The senator reiterated his call for a peaceful resolution of the incident, stressing that both Mary Jean Lacaba and Andreas Notter were released peacefully and unconditionally through talks with the abductors.

"If there is any rescue operation being conducted, it must be done with the highest interest of the safety of the hostage. The record shows that we have been able to get two hostages alive. And while Mr. Vagni is very ill, there should be a reason to continue talking," Gordon said.

Government authorities have confirmed that the rescue mission for Vagni is underway and that a P500,000-reward will be given to anyone who could give information on the whereabouts of the Italian Red Crosser and his captors.

A group of Abu Sayyaf men seized Vagni, Notter and Lacaba last Jan. 15 after the three ICRC workers inspected a water facility at the Sulu Provincial Jail. Lacaba was released on April 2 while Notter was rescued last April 18.

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