ZAMBOANGA CITY - The head of the Crisis Management Committee in Basilan said he sees a prolonged negotiation for the release of the two workers of a non-government organization kidnapped in the province last September 15. 

 

Basilan Vice Governor Al-Rasheed Sakalahul, head of the crisis management committee, said the kidnappers earlier demanded a ransom money in dollars thinking that the victims work for international non-government agencies. But the ransom money was later downgraded to P5 million for the release of Esperancita Hupida, who, two weeks ago, reportedly got sick.

 

Sakalahul admitted they are having difficulty in the negotiations, noting that there are other parties who wish to lead the negotiation. 

 

In text message he sent to ABS-CBN Zamboanga, he said: “There are many who are attempting to negotiate. For my part, we insist on no ransom policy, however, and it is lamentable because the victims have no money."