RP movie actor to negotiate release

RP movie actor to negotiate release

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines (AP): A southern Philippine province
has agreed to appoint a movie actor known for his tough-guy roles
as chief negotiator for the release of 33 people seized by Muslim
extremist rebels, an official said on Tuesday.

Basilan province's crisis management committee appointed actor
Robin Padilla, a Muslim, to negotiate the release of the captives
being held by the Abu Sayyaf group, as had been demanded by the
rebels, said the committee's spokesman, Christopher Puno.

Puno said a copy of the decision was sent to Defense Secretary
Orlando Mercado. Mercado said the Manila government is awaiting
recommendations from presidential national security adviser
Alexander Aguirre on whether to allow Padilla to take part in the
negotiations.

Padilla -- the "bad boy" of Philippine movies, converted to
Islam while serving a jail term for illegal gun possession -- has
said he is willing to help negotiate the release of the captives
but wants "full authority" from the government.