Legarda appeals for safety of missing TV crew

Senator Loren Legarda appealed today for the immediate release of television journalist Ces Drilon and two of her crew who were reportedly abducted by armed men while pursuing a story in Sulu.

Legarda, who in the past worked for the release of another journalist held captive in Mindanao by bandits, said that journalists are non-combatants and should be treated as such even in conflict areas.

"I urge our people to pray for their safety. As a former journalist myself, I know the hazards and dangers of the calling to inform the people," she said.

Aside from broadcaster Arlene dela Cruz whose release from the Abu Sayyaf she helped secure through negotiations in 2002, Legarda had also helped effect the release from captivity of a number of military and police officials, including Major Noel Buan.

After almost two years in captivity, Buan was released to a humanitarian mission led by Legarda and Bishop Jesus Varela in Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro by his NPA captors in 2001.

"Peaceful dialogue should always be the recourse in solving problems," she said, recalling the times when her help was sought by the families of those who were held captives.

"The anguish of the captives' families can really rend the heart. Their happiness upon the release of their loves, in turn, makes you forget about all your sacrifices in helping negotiate their release," she said.

In a statement, ABS-CBN said Drilon, Jimmy Encarnacion and Angelo Valderama went "missing" in Sulu with other reports saying they had been kidnapped by armed men.

ARMM regional police director Chief Supt. Joel Goltiao identified one Albader Parad as the leader of the group which allegedly took Drilon and company.