Showbiz 101

As the negotiation continues for the release of Ces Drilon and her cameraman Jimmy Encarnacion, the family of Ces Drilon have a new appeal.

In a statement issued last Saturday (June 14), Drilon's family said they hoped that the kidnappers would "have a change of mind and heart and see the good that will come out of releasing Ces and Jimmy."

"We are not giving up even on the people who continue to hold Ces and Jimmy captive. We have already tried our very best to have them released," the family said.

"Now, we can only hope and pray that the kidnappers have a change of mind and heart and see the good that will come out of releasing Ces and Jimmy."

Drilon, 46, a television journalist who has covered unrest in the southern Philippines for several years, was seized with her colleagues shortly after arriving in Jolo on Sunday.

The Drilon family said "Ces has always taken a special interest in the welfare of Mindanao."

"In spite of the risk of her profession and the additional dangers of going to Jolo, Ces and her cameraman Jimmy Encarnacion braved the trip for a story about the struggles of Mindanao," the family said.

"We are proud that she is a passionate and dedicated journalist, committed to reporting the news for the benefit of the nation," the family said.

The Drilon family thanked the people helping them try to get "Ces and Jimmy back."

"We would like to thank the government, the authorities, and the local government of Sulu for their persistent efforts to secure their release. Please don't give up. We are counting on you and are praying for your efforts," the family said.