Tarongoy returns home to Davao City

DAVAO CITY — Former Iraqi captive Robert Tarongoy finally came home to Davao City Sunday evening to the waiting arms of his three sisters and other relatives who welcomed him at the VIP Lounge of the Davao International Airport, with a bag of Chippy chips and Maxx menthol candy, said to be his favorite munch.

"I thank everyone for the support they have given me and my family. And to those who have worked hard for my release," said a teary-eyed Tarongoy upon his arrival at 9 p.m. on Sunday, following a delay of almost four hours in his flight.

Tarongoy, who had been held captive by Iraqi militants for nearly eight months until his release last week, however, refused to give in to more media interviews as he was immediately whisked off to a waiting vehicle at the airport.

Presidential Assistant for Mindanao Jesus Dureza and Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Walter Salmingo were among the local officials who made the arrangements for the simple welcome ceremonies for Tarongoy at the airport.

Accompanied by his wife, Ivy Grace, parents Tomas and Isabelita, and brother Eugene on the flight home, Tarongoy was reportedly immediately brought to an undisclosed place where he was supposed to undergo more debriefing as well as therapy to recover his health.

If not for the four-hour delay in their flight, the Tarongoys were supposed to attend a thanksgiving Mass at the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague Shrine at the Shrine Hills in Matina upon arrival at 6 p.m.

Meanwhile, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte was expected to meet Tarongoy yesterday although he earlier told local reporters to respect the wishes of the former captive that he first be given time to be with this family.

Duterte said the city government would extend assistance to Tarongoy should he need anything to facilitate his speedy recovery.

Yellow ribbons also festooned the house of the Tarongoys located along the Circumferential Road behind the San Pedro Memorial Park here to welcome him back to his hometown.<