Sekkingstad, 56, thanked President Duterte, Sec. Dureza, Moro National Liberation Front Chairman Nur Misuari, as well as the Philippine and the Norwegian governments for helping with his release. (Photo by Dick Hermoso/OPAPP peace panel member)
In a press conference, Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Jesus Dureza presented Sekkingstad to Pres. Duterte and the media.
Sekkingstad, 56, thanked President Duterte, Sec. Dureza, Moro National Liberation Front Chairman Nur Misuari, as well as the Philippine and the Norwegian governments for helping with his release.
“I’m very happy to be alive and free. It’s a beautiful feeling. Thank you all,” he said.
Duterte and Sekkingstad shook hands briefly, eliciting an applause from the audience. Duterte, in his speech, thanked the MNLF leadership and former Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan for their instrumental role in the release of Sekkingstad.
Sekkingstad was airlifted from Jolo, Sulu along with other three Indonesian men, according to Dureza. He was released by the Abu Sayyaf around 2:00 pm on Saturday and was turned over to Dureza on Sunday in Indanan town in Jolo, Sulu.
The Norwegian government said the release of Sekkingstad was a “positive development.”
“Norwegian hostage Kjartan Sekkingstad is released; our gratitude to Pres. Duterte, Sec. Dureza and everyone who contributed to the release,” Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines Erick Forner said.
Sekkingstad was abducted by the Abu Sayyaf along with Canadian nationals John Ridsdel and Robert Hall, and Filipina Tess Flor from a resort on Samal Island on September 21 last year.
Dureza said that Sekkingstad’s release was a result of “months of quiet, patient, but determined efforts with the assistance of all sectors.”
Sekkingstad stayed overnight at the residence of Misuari, who volunteered to host his stay because of heavy rains. “Men of Misuari, former Governor Sakur helped in the release,” he said. (davaotoday.com)
