Kidnapped Basilan public school principal freed

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Education (DepEd) expressed relief and elation over the release of Basilan public school principal Cecilia Sosas Tuesday night.

Sosas, principal of the Baas Elementary School in Basilan, is reportedly in the care of Basilan Vice Governor Al Rasheed Sakkalahul and Lamitan Mayor Arleigh Eisma.

“We are elated that Principal Sosas is back with us. I’m grateful to DILG Secretary Robredo and Basilan Vice Governor Al Rasheed Sakkalahul who responded to DepEd’s appeal for assistance on his behalf of the Sosas family,” Education Secretary Armin Luistro said yesterday in a statement.

Sosas, married to a police officer detailed in the Cebu PNP, was kidnapped by lawless elements last Nov. 15. More than a week after her abduction, her kidnappers issued a P1 million demand for her release. DepEd said Sosas’ kidnappers released her without ransom payment.  

Luistro also cited the efforts of Domingo Lardizabal, president of Lamitan Teacher’s Association and Lamitan district supervisor Teresita Rodico, in being DepEd’s point person during the crisis.­