Authorities have arrested three suspects in connection with the kidnapping and killing of Filipino-Chinese businessman Anson Que and his driver, Armanie Pabillo.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed the arrests during a press conference on Saturday, April 19.

Two of the suspects, Ricardo Austria David and Raymart Catequista, were taken into custody early on April 18 in Roxas, Palawan. The third suspect, Chinese national David Tan Liao, surrendered to the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) the following day and confessed to his involvement in the crime.

Que and Pabillo were last seen on March 29, 2025, leaving Que’s office in Valenzuela City. The next day, Que’s family received a ransom demand of $20 million via WeChat. Despite negotiations, the victims’ bodies were found on April 9 in Rodriguez, Rizal. Forensic tests confirmed their identities.

PNP spokesperson P/BGen. Jean Fajardo revealed that the crime had been planned months in advance, with suspects identified through surveillance footage, cyber monitoring, and intelligence reports.

Key evidence came from CCTV footage showing Liao purchasing items believed to have been used to clean up evidence. Authorities also recovered DNA evidence, matching that of Pabillo, in a property in Quezon City, where investigators believe the victims were killed.

The PNP is continuing to investigate the involvement of two other Chinese nationals and potential links to the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators’ (POGO) industry. Authorities also suspect that the abduction may not have been solely for ransom.

Que’s family expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the PNP for their swift action in apprehending the suspects.

”Your tireless efforts made a real difference in the early arrest of the malefactors, and we are grateful for your perseverance. We highly appreciate your bravery and courage in keeping our community safe,” the family said in a statement.

The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FFCCCII) also praised the PNP’s efforts and called for swift judicial proceedings to ensure justice for the victims. It reaffirmed its commitment to working with authorities to help safeguard the welfare of all people in the Philippines.