Reward offered for info on kidnapped American

A reward of P150,000 has been offered in exchange for information leading to the rescue of American vlogger Elliot Onil Eastman, who was seized in Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte last week.

- By MARK ERNEST VILLEZA and ROEL PARENO

Sibuco Mayor Joel Ventura said the reward included P50,000 for information leading to the location of the motorized boat used by the kidnappers.

The remaining amount will be given to informants who can help authorities rescue Eastman.

Ventura gave assurance that the identities of informants would be protected.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remula said the incident is being treated as a kidnapping even as no ransom has been demanded so far.

"Based on latest information, it doesn't sound like a kidnapping yet, because there is no ransom demand in actuality. It seems there is a local feud in the community," Remulla said. "Anyway, we are treating this as a kidnapping and the police are pursuing the perpetrators." Although there is no ransom demand yet, authorities continue to explore all possible motives in the kidnapping, including connections to groups with a history of similar activities in the area.

The Zamboanga peninsula police said that from the region, the search has expanded to neighboring areas to ensure the safe recovery of the victim.

The public has been urged to report any information to the Sibuco police or contact 09985986798 and 09178221990.