We continue to do everything we can in order to secure the release of Angelo dela Cruz.

We continue to work both through formal and informal channels toward this end.

We are hopeful that with the continued support and prayers of the people, we will hurdle the crisis.

We continue to seek the understanding and full cooperation of the media in reporting this live hostage situation.

We are extending our utmost support to the family during this very critical time.

At the request of the family, Secretary Patricia Sto. Tomas is accompanying Zeny dela Cruz and Angelo’s brother to Iraq in order to be closer to developments on the ground.

In line with our commitment to the free people of Iraq, we reiterate our plan to return our humanitarian contingent as scheduled on August 20, 2004.