October 12, 2009, GMA News, 4:59 PM, Arroyo orders PNP: Rescue abducted Irish priest, by Aie B. See and Sophia Dedace,

October 12, 2009, GMA News, 4:59 PM, Arroyo orders PNP: Rescue abducted Irish priest, by Aie B. See and Sophia Dedace,

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Monday ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) to form a task force that would focus on the rescue operations for the 78-year-old Irish priest who was abducted in southern Philippines last Sunday.

At the same time, officials appealed to the abductors of Michael Sinnott, a member of the Columban Missionaries assigned in Pagadian City, for his immediate and safe release.

"The President strongly condemns the kidnapping," Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said.

Deputy presidential spokesman Anthony Golez said the no-ransom policy of the government stands on the case of Sinnott, who was seized at gunpoint by several armed men at about 7:20 p.m. Sunday in Gates District, Pagadian City.

"Hopefully, very soon, the Irish priest can already be found unharmed and safely be brought to his family," Golez said.