With the media embargo broken.Malacanang several minutes ago confirmed the abduction of journalist Ces Drilon and appealed to the news media for “caution and restraint” in reporting the incident.

“We hope for her safety and that of her crew. Likewise we appeal for caution and restraint in media reportage so as not to unduly hamper efforts to rescue them,” Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said.

Deputy Palace Spokesman Anthony Golez for his part Malacañang “is condemning the kidnapping and assured that the Philippine National Police is doing all it can to run after the perpetrators and “bring the victims home alive and well.”

Golez also said the Armed Forces of the Philippines has been directed to share intelligence information with the police, which would lead to the capture of the group believed to be that of the al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf Group.

“This must not go unpunished,” he added.

Restraint , indeed, is paramount. From hereon, we expect authorities to impose a news blackout on officials on the ground in Sulu.

Journalists will, on their own continue to keep their ears close to the ground as it is their professional duty to vigilantly safeguard the public’s right to information.

The lines are drawn.

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