Thursday, July 10, 2008 (Philippines)

Businessman Johnny Loyola watches as granddaughter Andrea plays with a couple of hawksbill turtle hatchlings that Councilor Leonardo Avila III is counting before they are released. The 141 hatchlings emerged and were released Monday afternoon in Punta Dumalag. (Sun.Star Davao/Stella A. Estremera) RETIRED Master Sergeant Jose Manero is alive and still in the hands of his rebel captors, according to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte after he met with rebel leaders recently. Though he did not divulge much of the information about the meeting, Duterte said the rebels assured him that Manero is well and alive and remains in the hands of his captors. Arroyo Watch: Sun.Star blog on President Arroyo [full story]