TALIPAO, Philippines (4 May 2000) -- According to Philippine Foreign Secretary, Domingo Saizon, Abu Sayyaf rebels have demanded $2 million for the release of ailing Sipadan hostage Renate Wallert. Chief negotiator Roberto Aventajado told CDNN this morning Saizon has got it all wrong. "That (Saizon's statement) is not true. I am the one on the ground. I should know." The dispute between Saizon and Aventajado is just the latest example of Philippine government bungling which has prolonged the Sipadan hostage crisis. Almost four weeks since the 21 hostages were abducted from Sipadan Island, discussions necessary for the release of the hostages have still not begun. © CDNN - CYBER DIVER NEWS NETWORK | 
