Freed German nationals arrive in Manila. Following their release Friday night, two German nationals abducted by the Abu Sayyaf were brought to Metro Manila early Saturday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said. They arrived at Villamor Air Base at 6:45 a.m., according to AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Domingo Tutaan Jr. Armed Forces of the Philippines
Malacañang on Saturday said President Benigno Aquino III is concerned over the health of the two freed German hostages who had been held by the Abu Sayyaf group in Sulu since April.
In a press briefing on Saturday, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said that while the President was happy over the release of the two Germans on Friday, he also expressed concern over their physical condition.
Asked if the two hostages will pay a courtesy call on Aquino in Malacañang, Valte just said she has no information about it yet, adding that their main concern is for the victims to receive medical attention.
“Now we understand the first concern for them is to receive medical attention and I’m sure they would want to get in touch with their families,” she noted.
Stefan Victor Okonek, 71, and Herike Diesen, 55, were taken by the bandits while on board their yacht in waters between Palawan and Sabah in April.
After their release on Friday night, they were flown to Metro Manila early Saturday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said.
AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Domingo Tutaan Jr. said the Germans arrived at Villamor Air Base at 6:45 a.m.
Tutaan added the German Embassy “[has] made arrangements for this and have taken custody over them.” — Amanda Fernandez /LBG, GMA News
