Family of kidnapped trader wants proof of life

Marawi City — The family of a kidnapped Cagayan de Oro City trader is asking his abductors for proof of life before they negotiate his release and pay any ransom.

"Kahit tawag sa cellphone para marinig ang boses ni Leonardo Agan wala (There’s not even a cellphone call to hear the voice of Leonardo Agan)," said Brig. Gen. Ben Dolorfino, commanding general of the 2nd Marine Brigade and Joint Task Force Ranao.

Dolorfino quoted some members of Agan’s family who were reportedly willing to negotiate his release.

Agan, a fish trader, was abducted along with his wife, Philadelphia, in Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City last May 2. She was released hours later in Iligan City.

The kidnappers originally demanded P20 million, but later reduced it to P2 million and finally to P500,000.

Dolorfino believes the kidnappers are now trapped somewhere in the boundary of Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte, particularly in Balo-i town.

"We are monitoring a barangay chairwoman who was reported to have brought food to the kidnappers and their victim in a safehouse in her barangay," he said.

A team of Marines, backed by an armored personnel carrier, is on standby near the barangay, Dolorfino said.