PNP: Parents of 2 missing activists in Bataan reveal info on their possible whereabouts

The parents of the two environemtal activists, who were reported to have been abducted in Bataan, have already reached out to the local police and disclosed vital information as to their possible whereabouts, the Philippine National Police (PNP) disclosed on Wednesday, Sept. 6.

But PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo would not disclose details as to what were discussed during the meeting of the local police and the parents of Jonila Castro and Jhed Tamano, saying both parties are now working with the Commission on Human Rights on the matter.

“I am not at liberty to reveal some important details but suffice to say that the parent of  Jhed Tamano has personally coordinated with the PD (Provincial Director of PNP Bataan). They already met with the Governor and the CHR Region 3 is also helping,” said Fajardo.

“What I can reveal is the parent has an idea where the child is but I am not at liberty to reveal it right now because there are ongoing efforts to convince the child to go home,” she added.

Castro and Tamano were reported to have been abducted by four men on board a sports utility vehicle. The two are reportedly environmental activists conducting research on the effects of the Manila Bay reclamation to fishermen and coastal communities. 

Some groups condemned the alleged kidnapping and accused the police and the military as responsible.

But Fajardo denied the allegation, saying the two are now in police custody.

“On the part of the PNP, we categorically deny any knowledge on the alleged abduction but we have an idea, and in fact, the parents themselves have an idea as to where their children are,” said Fajardo.