Government emissaries in the Philippines are continuing to work to free Malaysian hostages held by Muslim rebels in the southern Philippine island of Jolo, amid reports the kidnappers had increased their ransom demand. The trio are the last of nine Malaysians, originally abducted along with 12 other Asian and Western hostages, from the Malaysian resort of Sipadan on April 23.
Six of their compatriots, as well as a German woman, were released earlier this month. Two other teachers and a 16-year-old boy abducted in March from nearby Basilan Island were also released. Apart from the three remaining Malaysians, Abu Sayyaf rebels are still holding three Germans, five French nationals, two South Africans, two Finns, a Lebanese and 15 Filipinos.
The Philippine and Malaysian governments have repeatedly denied ransom was paid for the release of the 10 hostages. However, intelligence sources have confirmed $3 million had been paid for the Malaysians, and another $1 million for German teacher Renate Wallert. Government emissaries were reportedly pressing Abu Sayyaf rebels to free the Malaysian trio in time for President Joseph Estrada's 12-day official visit to the United States, which is to begin on Monday.
