CPA MEMBER JAMES BALAO MISSING

The family of JAMES BALAO, a member of the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA), has reported that he has been missing since 17 September 2008. He left his residence in Fairview, Baguio City at around 7:00 AM on the said date and since then, has not been in contact with his friends and family; nor can they contact him.

This is very unlikely for Balao, who his friends and family know to be conscientious as to informing them of his whereabouts. James is of medium-built, 5'7"-5'9" tall, is chinky-eyed and was last seen wearing a black jacket, brown pants, visor, black hiking boots and eyeglasses. He was carrying a yellow and blue backpack and red travelling bag. He was going to spend the following days in the family residence in La Trinidad.

His absence is very alarming, as he has reported regular surveillance to hisfamily starting first week of June 2008 and has increasingly heightened until his disappearance. He has even observed white and blue vans that regularly tail him from his residence to his daily chores.

We are urgently calling on the authorities, particularly the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippins (AFP) and the public who know him (former classmates, friends), to aggressively assist the Balao family and us in our search for James. Any information in relation to James may be forwarded to the Balao family at 09175069404; the offices of the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (442-2115); and the Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (445-2586 and 09189199007). # Please click here for JAMES BALAO'S PROFILE

BEVERLY LONGID
Cordillera Peoples Alliance Chairperson

ATTY. RENE CORTES
Cordillera Human Rights Alliance Chairperson