By
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON - The United States demanded today that Muslim rebels in the southern Philippines immediately release an American they kidnapped and threatened to kill.
State Department spokesman Philip Reeker said he had no information on the condition of Jeffrey Schilling, of Oakland, Calif. He would not say whether Schilling works for the U.S. government.
Abu Sayyaf rebels holding Schilling and 17 others captive on Jolo island suspect that Schilling works for the CIA, rebel spokesman Abu Sabaya said in a Philippine radio interview.
"The United States strongly condemns this latest kidnapping, and we call for the immediate, safe and unconditional release of this hostage and other hostages still held captive as well on the island of Jolo," Reeker said.
Philippine officials confirmed rebels kidnapped an American man and threatened to kill him unless the United States accepts their demands. The rebels said they would reveal their demands in three days.
Reeker said several U.S. Embassy officials flew to Zamboanga, on the main southern island Mindinao, to discuss the kidnapping with local officials. He said diplomats also contacted officials in Manila, the capital.
Asked if the United States would accept Libyan help to secure Schilling's release, Reeker said, "We support efforts by negotiators, whomever they may be, to find a quick resolution" so long as ransom is not paid. U.S. policy bars payments to buy hostage freedom.
Six hostages held by the same rebel group were released over the weekend after Libya reportedly paid $6 million in ransom.
"I think it's premature to make any specific statements on any requests or offers or issues specifically involving the case, because we're trying to determine all the facts," Reeker said.
