Malacañang stood pat on its no-ransom policy as negotiations continue to seek the freedom of four employees of the Basilan Electric Cooperative (Baselco) taken hostage by alleged members of the Abu Sayyaf, Press Secretary Jesus Dureza said.In a news conference Monday, Dureza said security forces are dealing with the situation and efforts are underway to release the hostages safely. 'Our security forces are handling these on ground. Malacañang is steadfast on no-ransom policy, we'll not change that. We hope local efforts will work so we can bring home these people safely,' he said.
Baselco employees Ronnie Tansiung, Emilberto Singson, Alberto Singson, Paul Herwig, and Ian Herwig were seized last June 26 in Tuburan town. Tansiung was freed the same day. The kidnappers are reportedly demanding P1 million for the hostages.