‘Talks with Abu to continue for hostages’ release’

MANILA, Philippines - Incoming presidential adviser on the peace process Jesus Dureza yesterday said the administration of president-elect Rodrigo Duterte would have to continue negotiating with the Abu Sayyaf for the release of its remaining hostages.

In a television interview, Dureza said the situation is complicated and there is no single approach in dealing with the bandit group.

“You cannot put it in a box. It has to be a calibrated approach,” Dureza said.

He said the government cannot just order an offensive against the Abu Sayyaf because there are communities, families and hostages involved.

“In fairness, we have to talk to them to save lives, but it’s not in the context of peace, unlike with the other groups. The full force of the law will have to be applied here,” Dureza said.

Last week, the Abu Sayyaf agreed to release their Filipina captive, Marites Flor, who was later presented to Duterte in Davao City.

Dureza said no ransom was paid for Flor’s release.

Flor was kidnapped along with Norwegian national Kjartan Sekkingstad and Canadians Robert Hall and John Ridsdel on Samal Island in September 2015.

The Abu Sayyaf beheaded the two Canadians after the ransom was not paid.

Dureza said they are still negotiating the release of Sekkingstad.

Before the release of Flor, the military said the bandit group was holding at least seven hostages, including Sekkingstad.

On Sunday, the military confirmed that the bandit group also kidnapped seven Indonesian sailors in the Sulu Sea last week.

Day of reckoning

Duterte, meanwhile, reiterated his stand that there will be a day of reckoning for the Abu Sayyaf for snatching their victims, mostly foreigners, in exchange for ransom worth millions of dollars in the past years.

“Just release all your hostages and surrender unconditionally,” Duterte urged the group, adding that otherwise, they would face the consequences of their actions. 

Earlier, Duterte also said he does not consider the Abu Sayyaf an enemy.

He nevertheless asked the bandit group to clarify how it wants to be seen by the government.

“I know that (the issue with the Abu Sayyaf) is connected with the issue of Mindanao. I just want to make it clear: are they willing to talk or just fight it out?” he asked. – With Edith Regalado, Roel Pareño