Philippine kidnap negotiator says ransom 'won't be paid'
Updated
![A recent photo of kidnapped Philippine television journalist Ces Drilon. [AFP]](http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/img/news/base/phils_cesdrilon_afp_170608.jpg "A recent photo of kidnapped Philippine television journalist Ces Drilon. [AFP]")
A recent photo of kidnapped Philippine television journalist Ces Drilon. [AFP]
Philippine militants holding two television journalists captive have been told by negotiators that a ransom "won't be paid".
An initial deadline for the ransom has now passed.
However, the kidnappers have said they will allow an indefinite extension for negotiations.
Ces Drilon, one of the Philippines' best-known TV reporters, two cameramen and a university professor were kidnapped more than a week ago on the southern island of Jolo in Sulu province.
The island is the base of the rebel Abu Sayyaf group.
It has been reported the kidnappers are seeking $US250,000 for the release of the hostages.
The governor of Sulu province, Abdusakur Tan, is one of the negotiators for the kidnapped group, and has told Radio Australia's Asia Pacific program he has made it clear to the kidnappers the ransom won't be paid.
He says he is prepared to risk the hostages being killed.
"If they're killed, well that is the risk we have to take," he said.
"Q: And you're prepared to take that risk? I'm prepared to take full responsibility for any action that they may take."
