2 kidnapped Iligan teachers released

ILIGAN CITY ,Philippines  – The two teachers who were kidnapped here last March 19 were released in Barangay Malna in Kapai town Lanao del Sur Sunday night.

Keno Sanchez and Rene Sumagang of Lumunsudan Bayug Falls Elementary School had a tearful reunion with their parents, co-teachers and friends at the office of Iligan Mayor Lawrence Cruz.

The victims were first brought to the office of Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr.

Col. Daniel Lucero of the Army’s 103rd Brigade in Marawi City had ordered Col. Siegred Espina, commander of the 56th Infantry Battalion to cordon off Kapai town after receiving reports that the kidnap victims were brought there. The police chief was also tasked to secure the entry and exit points in the town.

Kapai Mayor Masangkad Capal and his father Cosain, a former mayor led the negotiations for the safe release of the victims.

Sanchez and Sumagang appeared haggard but were in good health. They said their kidnappers were led by a certain Elias Mangagao alias commander Ayatollah, who earlier demanded a P4 million ransom.

Philippine National Police spokesman Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz said no ransom was paid for the release of the victims.

Espina said the pressure exerted by the police and the military forced the kidnappers to release the victims.

Sanchez and Sumagang said they would wait for the order of their school superintendent Rabdolph Tortola when they would report for work.   – With Mike Frialde, Roel Pareño