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.