ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE, Philippines – Authorities have intensified their operations following the abduction of American national Elliot Onil Eastman in Sibuco on October 17, 2024. The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are coordinating closely as they pursue the armed men responsible for the kidnapping. The incident has drawn national attention, with various agencies involved in joint efforts to resolve the case.
The Police Regional Office IX (PRO IX) has formed a Critical Incident Management Task Group (CIMTG) to lead the investigation. According to PRO IX Director, PBGen. Bowenn Joey Masauding, the task force has already identified several “persons of interest” and is conducting further investigations to determine their possible connections to known threat groups in the region. “We are working tirelessly to ensure Mr. Eastman’s safe return and hold the perpetrators accountable,” Masauding said.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Marine Battalion Landing Team 6 (MBLT-6), Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Army, and National Commission on Muslim Filipinos IX (NCMF) are working closely with the local government unit of Sibuco in the investigation and hot pursuit operations. The NCMF is also providing support to Eastman’s family, ensuring their welfare, especially as they belong to the Moro community.
Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who held a press conference in Zamboanga City earlier today, expressed his concern over the case. He committed to requesting updates from the authorities when he returns to the Senate. “This is a serious matter, and we must ensure that all necessary actions are being taken to resolve it swiftly,” said dela Rosa.
Local government units have also stepped up. Sibuco Mayor Joel Ventura announced a reward of $50,000 for anyone who can provide information on the whereabouts of the Bangka (Jungkong) used in the kidnapping, and an additional $100,000 for information leading to the rescue of Eastman. The mayor emphasized the importance of community cooperation in bringing the American national back safely.
Meanwhile, the Anti-Kidnapping Group-Mindanao Field Unit is in contact with Eastman’s family, confirming that no ransom demand or communication from the kidnappers has been received as of yet.
Authorities remain hopeful that their joint operations, including intelligence sharing and coordination with local law enforcement, will yield positive results in the ongoing manhunt for the armed group responsible for the abduction.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
