AFP joins PNP in rescue of Duterte couple

ZAMBOANGA CITY MANILA, Philippines – Military and police units are on a joint search to rescue a couple surnamed Duterte who were kidnapped Friday night in Siocon town, Zamboanga del Norte, security official said. 

Captain Jo-Ann Petinglay, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) spokesperson, said the operations are aimed at saving Jose Duterte, 60, and his wife Jessica, 52, who were snatched from their residence by seven masked men and believed taken to Sirawai, a coastal town. 

Policemen could not say if it was a kidnap-for-ransom incident as no group has claimed responsibility or demanded payment. The Dutertes survive only on coconut farming and the produce of a farm lot.