MANILA — Gilbert Rey “Jing” Cardino, the Bayan Muna leader in South Cotabato who was abducted by suspected state security forces on Wednesday, has been found alive.
Initial reports reaching the Bayan Muna national headquarters reveal that Cardino was found alive at around 10 am today along the Gen. Santos City-Marbel National Highway, where his abductors dropped him off.
Cardino was barefoot and showed signs of mental trauma and grave physical fatigue, Bayan Muna said in a statement.
A family member told Bayan Muna that Cardino appear to have been subjected to mental and physical torture by his abductors.
South Cotabato Governor Daisy Avance Fuentes immediately rushed to see Cardino and reportedly ordered soldiers and policemen to keep away from the victim.
Cardino is now confined at the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital. Only family relatives are allowed to enter his room at the moment.
Cardino, 27, is the youngest member of the Bayan Muna National Council, chair for South Cotabato and regional coordinator for SOCSKSARGEN. (davaotoday.com)
