Press Release
May 26, 2009

ON THE RELEASE OF TEACHERS HELD HOSTAGE IN BASILAN

I am relieved that the ordeal of teachers Freires Quizon, Janette de los Reyes and Raphael Mayonado is finally over. After being held against their will for nearly five months, they will now be reunited with their families.

I am hopeful that despite their bitter experience, they will decide to return to their jobs. Despite the risks involved in the job as we have seen here, teaching remains a noble profession and thousands continue to aspire to be one. More importantly, teachers play a vital role in molding the character of the youth, some of whom will be the future leaders of this country.

Let us pray that other Filipinos and foreigners still being held hostage will also be released soon.

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