Kuwait, Aug 28 (Kuwait Times): The kidnapping incident of a Kuwaiti citizen in Manila has stirred deep concerns in Kuwait. The government has contacted the Philippines’ Charge d’Affaires Raul H Dado to address this matter swiftly and accordingly. Vice President of the Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Office, Ambassador Jassim Al-Bidaiwi has met with the Filipino diplomat to discuss the fall-out of the incident and to take the required necessary measures. “We are shocked at the report; we have heard it and are closely coordinating with the Kuwait Ministry of Foreign Affairs here and our base back in Manila, the Department of Foreign Affairs, to send us an update on the matter as soon as possible. I am sure to get the latest by tomorrow morning,” he said. Dado stressed the Philippine authorities are exerting necessary efforts for a quick and early release of the kidnapped Kuwaiti.

He added that the Philippines Embassy is in constant and direct contact with the concerned authorities and is keeping a close watch on the latest developments. While confirming media reports that a Kuwaiti citizen has been kidnapped in the Philippines, Kuwaiti Ambassador Walid Al-Kanderi said yesterday that the embassy is liaising with the authorities and constantly informed of developments. “The embassy is in constant contact with the authorities, and we hope the businessman kidnapped in Manila will be found soon and the circumstances behind this incident revealed as well,” the ambassador said. Meanwhile, Kuwaiti media reported quoting Foreign Ministry sources, that a ransom demand of half a million US dollars has been made for the release of the “well-known businessman”.