The Irish government has insisted no effort would be spared in freeing an elderly priest kidnapped in the Philippines after his abductors demanded a $2m ransom.
The captors of Fr Michael Sinnott, 79, who has a heart condition, released a video in which the Co Wexford missionary appeals for the cash on behalf of the gang holding him.
Footage obtained by negotiators shows Fr Sinnott holding a copy of a newspaper, dated October 22.
In a weak voice, he appeals to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, the Irish government, his religious order the Missionary Society of St Columban and friends "who may have pity ... to help so that I can get out of here as soon as possible."
The video was taken in a wooded area outdoors.
No other person was shown but one hand could be seen helping him hold up the newspaper.
Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin said Fr Sinnott's family told him they were relieved that he appears to be alive and well.
"No effort will be spared to secure the safe release of Fr Sinnott as soon as possible," he added.
Speedboat
Fears had grown for the wellbeing of Fr Sinnott, who was taken away by speedboat after being abducted from his gated compound in Pagadian City on the island of Mindanao on October 11.
But negotiators earlier this week insisted he had received vital medicine for a heart problem.
Sinn Fein MLA Gerry Kelly and former Downing Street chief of staff Jonathan Powell are both involved in efforts to free the captured cleric.
They have been in regular contact with the Philippine government and the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) through intermediaries.
The MILF was initially thought to have been behind the kidnapping, but Mr Kelly said a criminal gang was now believed to be responsible.
Mr Kelly said the cleric, who underwent a heart bypass four years ago, was understood to be held in an area called Lanao del Norte in northern Mindanao.
Irish Ambassador Richard O'Brien is also working closely with the Philippine government and has had meetings with representatives of the MILF and other agencies working in the area.
Fr Sinnott, who is 80 in December, ran a school for young people with learning and hearing difficulties called Hangop Kabatan, meaning refuge for children.
He is regarded as a highly respected missionary and is a well-liked figure in the community.
© Press Association