Gordon elated over outpouring of prayers and support for ICRC workers

Tracing a silver lining in dire circumstances, Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) Chairman and Senator Richard J. Gordon today acknowledged the outpouring of prayers and support for the three International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) workers in Sulu, one of whom, Mary Jean Lacaba, has been safely released last Thursday night.

"I want to thank the many, many people who have called and texted us at the Red Cross to say that they were praying for our colleagues. Their continued show of support and prayers for Mary Jean, Andreas, and Eugenio will certainly be felt and heard, hopefully, up to Sulu. Perhaps it will soften the hearts of their kidnappers and prayers are always answered," said Gordon.

"I am a fierce optimist and we will continue to do all we can to ensure the safe return of our two remaining colleagues. Your prayers will be very much appreciated by the family of our colleagues," he added.

Mary Jean Lacaba, Swiss Andreas Notter, and Italian Eugenio Vagni were abducted by the Abu Sayyaf on Jan. 15 in Jolo, Sulu as they were leaving the Sulu City Jail. Mary Jean was eventually released safely and unconditionally last Thursday night.

On March 31, the Abu Sayyaf announced a 2 PM deadline for the withdrawal of military forces and threatened to behead one of their hostages. The deadline lapsed but since then, there has been no communication from the Abu Sayyaf abductors.

Gordon said that while he continues to hope that the two remaining ICRC workers are safe, it is very unsettling not to have any communication with the two humanitarian aid workers.

"We must continue to pray and continue to appeal to the abductors of our colleagues not to harm them in anyway. We will not leave our people behind," said Gordon.