ACT alarmed over reported death of kidnapped teacher

MANILA, Philippines - The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) expressed apprehension over the reported death of one of three public school teachers abducted in Zamboanga Sibugay earlier this month.

Antonio Tinio, ACT national chairman, called on the government, the military and the police to check on the condition of all the teachers still in captivity of kidnap-for-ransom gangs.

“We are saddened to hear reports of the alleged demise of one of the teachers kidnapped in Zamboanga Sibugay. Once again, we condemn those responsible for these abductions that have victimized these dedicated public servants and deprived hundreds of school children of access to education,” Tinio said at a press conference yesterday. “We urge the authorities to immediately verify the condition of all teachers being held in captivity and to redouble their efforts to secure their immediate release.”

Earlier reports indicated that Noemi Mandi, 38, might have died because she was not provided with her medicine. Mandi had undergone surgery before her abduction.

Mandi, together with Jocelyn Inion, 39, and Jocelyn Enriquez, 43, all teachers of Bangkaw-Bangkaw Elementary School, were abducted last March 13 on their way home from school. Police have identified their abductors as a group of pirates led by Kamsa Asdanal. The kidnappers are demanding a P10-million ransom for the release of the teachers.

Tinio noted that another group of teachers abducted in Zamboanga City is also still in captivity.