By Genalyn D. Kabiling
The government has ruled out paying ransom in exchange for the release of two policewomen seized by the Abu Sayyaf Group in Patikul, Sulu.
“As far as I know, we don’t pay ransom,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said.
The government instead plans to tap the assistance of the Moro National Liberation Front in recovering the hostages – Police officers Benierose Alvarez and Dinah Gumahad and two other civilians – according to Roque.
He noted that President Duterte mentioned plans to talk to MNLF founding chair Nur Misuari about the matter.