[buwaya]

This happened on Duterte territory - they were kidnapped on Samal island which is just off the coast of Davao City and isn’t Muslim territory.
I have to say, sadly, that tourists should avoid Mindanao for the most part. If any bit of it should have been safe, it would be this.

[knarf]

I didn't read the article, just responded to the headline ...

That's pretty bold, IMO

[DoughtyOne]

Isn’t it sad that it has to be this way.

I don’t have an axe to grind with Islamic people, if they weren’t so corrosive to other cultures.

Hate or not, they still want to rule the world, and you can’t really ever keep that out of your mind when dealing with them.

[WVKayaker]

This happened on Duterte territory - they were kidnapped on Samal island which is just off the coast of Davao City and isn’t Muslim territory.

There is always a need for accuracy when talking about things. I live in Davao CITY, where Duarte is Mayor. Davao del Norte includes the "Garden Island of Samal". It is big island, located near three Provinces, Davao Del Sur, Davao Del Norte, and Davao Oriental.

The kidnappers came by boat, and approached a private dock where this "resort" is located. These were flamboyant folk, so I understand, and well known rich folk (by standards here). The Abu Sayef do it for money. I think Islam is involved, but it is a bunch of thieves marauding for gain.

They had insufficient security and no warning. Oops.

I am angry that they could not recover him alone with the others. There were three taken. I do not believe Duterte could have stopped it, but if he has any say, they will be accounted. Just yesterday, he went to meet with the NPA (Communist group) where five police officers were released. Duterte is a strong man. People see his strength and fear him, here.

Here, he is signing the release form to get the "POW"s.

[WVKayaker]

Here's a map of the area.

[Mark17]

I have been to Samal Island numerous times. I think generally, it is fine, but anything can happen anywhere. The Dos Palmas resort in Palawan, was also pretty safe, but anything can happen, as the Burnhams found out.
I am sure I would rather walk the streets of Davao, than the streets of Chicago or Detroit.