According to Vice-Governor Sahidulla, they are fine and in good health.

The visit took place on 28 January. The Red Cross declines to make any further details available regarding the location or how the contact was made in order not to jeopardize the safety of Mary Jean Lacaba, Eugenio Vagni and Andreas Notter or the prospects for a positive outcome to the situation.

"It's a positive sign that this face-to-face contact took place," said Alain Aeschlimann, the head of the ICRC's operations for Asia Pacific in Geneva.

There has been regular phone contact between the Red Cross and the abducted staff since they were snatched nearly two weeks ago on 15 January on Sulu Island following a visit to the Jolo Provincial Jail. The latest call with the three took place on Wednesday morning.

"They continue to sound calm and composed and say they are doing alright," said Aeschlimann. "We are always glad to be able to hear their voices and know they are together. Their loved ones are thinking about them all the time and trying to stay strong, while continuing to hope that Eugenio, Mary Jean and Andreas will be home soon."

The ICRC is aware of other information circulating in the media regarding discussions with the kidnappers and efforts to try to resolve the situation. At this stage, the ICRC can only confirm that direct contact was established with the kidnappers.

"We are not in a position to comment or disclose any further information," said Aeschlimann. "We appreciate everyone's understanding during this difficult time that we must be very cautious in what we say to avoid any risk of jeopardizing the safety and well-being of Mary Jean, Andreas and Eugenio, or the possibility of achieving a positive outcome."