NEWSFLASH 

---

ROBIN AS COURIER, BUT NOT NEGOTIATOR -- ERAP

Manila, March 30, 2000 - President Estrada yesterday but turned down any negotiator's role for Robin Padilla, but conceded that the action star can be a courier in negotiations with the Abu Sayyaf.

"They are asking for almost anybody to be a negotiator," Estrada said in a radio interview. "At first they wanted Mr. Fernando Poe Jr., and now it's Robin Padilla. They might next call for Dolphy. They might be confused. Let's just leave them be."

Mr. Estrada said he does not object to the Abu Sayyaf's request that Padilla, who converted to Islam while serving time for illegal gun possession, be allowed to act as mediator for the hostages' safe release.

"If anyone can help, I would allow him," he said. "My only worry is that he (Padilla) has no personality to go there (Basilan). If the Abu Sayyaf would send a message through him (Padilla), I would listen to him. Everyone who can help is welcome to mediate for us."

The President has appointed Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile, a long-time defense minister, as a member of the team negotiating with the Abu Sayyaf, which is now known as Al Harakatul Islamia.

---