Jalosjos wanted in N. Sulawesi

MANADO, North Sulawesi: The authorities have been searching for a Philippine House of Representatives member wanted by Manila for allegedly raping an 11-year-old girl.

The Philippine authorities believe Romeo Jalosjos, a lawmaker in President Fidel Ramos' ruling coalition, is hiding in Indonesia, possibly in nearby North Sulawesi.

Manado immigration office Chief M. Amar Cho told Antara that Jalosjos' photograph had been posted in public places in the hope that the public could help find him.

The authorities in the remote Sangihe Talaud islands and Bitung, which border the Philippines, have been asked to step up the alert, he said.

Reports from Manila said the Philippine authorities had no clues to the whereabouts of the House member, who has been on the run for three weeks. (pan)