Thursday, July 10, 2008 Manero alive, but still in rebel hands: Rody
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.
Duterte said he appealed to the rebels to release Manero for humanitarian reasons.
The meeting took place in Davao City at the residence of Duterte Sunday evening.
A top ranking rebel leader, whom Duterte refused to identify, and two other rebels met with the mayor.
In the meeting, Duterte reportedly assured the rebels they will not be harmed in the city. He also told the rebels that authorities are investigating the death of Celso Pojas, and that the government has nothing to do his killing.
The mayor also warned the rebels not to create chaos in the city because he would not allow it.
The rebels abducted Manero on May 11. The rebel group said they are trying Manero for his "sins to society." (BOT)
