Malacañang mum on rescue operations for Jordanian

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang is mum on whether the Jordanian government or the news organization of a foreign journalist held by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) will be allowed to join the search operations.

Jordanian Baker Atyani, Dubai-based bureau chief of Al Arabiya network, is not being considered a kidnap victim even as two armed lawless groups linked to the ASG and the Moro National Liberation Front are now reportedly guarding him and his two Filipino cameramen in the jungles of Patikul, Sulu.

Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said they would have to confirm if there was indeed an indication from Jordan or Atyani’s network to be part of the search operations for the journalist.

Valte stressed it would be up to Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo and local authorities on the ground to deal with Atyani’s case.

But she said the government’s “no-ransom policy” remains.

Atyani went to Sulu not to do a documentary on the Abu Sayyaf as reported, but to exclusively cover the release of one of the six foreign hostages being held captive by the terrorist group, reports said.

The ASG is holding hostage six foreign nationals, including an Australian retired serviceman, a Dutch, and Swiss birdwatchers.

Negotiations were reportedly almost complete for the release of the Australian, but Atyani’s presence in Sulu complicated the matter.