The Philippine National Police (PNP) has taken custody of three suspects in the kidnapping and murder of Filipino-Chinese steel magnate Anson Que, also known as Anson Tan, and his driver, Armanie Pabillo.
According to PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, the crime had been planned as early as January 2025. Suspects Richardo Austria David, alias Richard Tan Garcia, and his brother-in-law, Raymart Catequista, were arrested on April 18 in Purok Sambuton, Barangay IV, Roxas, Palawan. The third suspect, David Tan Liao—also known as Chang Jiang, Yang Jianmin, or Michael Agad Yung—surrendered to the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group on the same day.
Authorities revealed that the victims were last seen on March 29 after leaving Que’s office in Valenzuela City. On March 30, Que’s family received a $20 million ransom demand via WeChat. Despite negotiations, the victims’ bodies were discovered on April 9 in Rodriguez, Rizal. Forensic tests confirmed their identities.
Investigators believe the victims were held and killed in a house located in Barangay Langka, Meycauayan, Bulacan. On April 16, a search yielded DNA evidence matching Pabillo. Surveillance footage also showed one suspect buying wet wipes and plastic bags, believed used to conceal forensic evidence. Their abandoned Lexus van was later recovered in Quezon City.
PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil ordered the creation of a Special Investigation Task Group led by Lt. Gen. Edgar Alan Okubo. The group worked with the CIDG, AKG, ACG, and regional offices to locate the suspects.
The three face kidnapping for ransom with homicide charges. Two Chinese nationals, believed to be the masterminds, remain at large. Authorities continue their pursuit.
