VP Binay: Fight for Pinoy on Saudi death row not over despite reprieve

While he was grateful that overseas Filipino worker Joselito Zapanta has been granted another six months to raise blood money, Vice President Jejomar Binay said on Thursday the fight to secure Zapanta's freedom is "far from over." In a post on his Facebook account, Binay said only P8.2 million has so far been raised for Zapanta - less than a fifth of the P44 million total. "Our government and Joselito's family have been able to raise P5.6 million out of the P44 million demanded by the victim's heirs. A fund-raising drive, spearheaded by Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda, has also raked in an additional P2.6 million. But, the fight is far from over. We still need to raise P35.8 million to finally secure Joselito's freedom," he said. He also appealed for help in raising the full amount, and for prayers for Zapanta. "Again, I appeal to everyone to help raise the full amount needed for Joselito's blood money, and continue praying for him and his family," he said. Zapanta had been given another six months - up to November 3 - to raise the funds. Binay thanked Saudi King Abdullah and the Saudi government for their intercession in the deferment of Zapanta's death sentence. He also thanked Philippine officials in Riyadh led by Ambassador Ezzedin Tago for "their steadfast efforts in saving the life of our kababayan." - VVP, GMA News