ABS-CBN Reporter Ces Drilon and Cameraman Jun Encarnacion Freed by Abductors

ABS-CBN statement:

ABS-CBN Network in a statement expressed its gratitude in the release of its news team.

“Ces, Jimmy, and Angelo are finally all free. We cannot wait to bring them home to their families and to ABS-CBN," the network said in a statement released shortly after the release.

Encarnacion was the team’s cameraman while Valderama, who was released June 12, was the driver.

The team’s guide, Mindanao State University professor Octavio Dinampo, was released along with Ces Drilon and Jun Encarnacion.

“We are thankful that our prayers have been answered and our efforts rewarded. We thank everyone who helped secure the release of Ces, Jimmy, and Angelo. We received a great outpouring of support from people all over the world who care for freedom. Their words of comfort and prayers guided and strengthened us throughout this ordeal," ABS-CBN said.

The network also said some of those who helped in the release requested to remain anonymous.

“But they know how eternally grateful we are to them," it said.

The network said the release of the hostages could not have been possible without the cooperation of the people of Sulu and their local government.