MANILA, Philippines — HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Sunday praised the Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of General Rommel Marbil, for the rapid apprehension of suspects in the gruesome killing of Filipino-Chinese businessman Anson Que and his driver, Armanie Pabillo.
He said the development is a clear demonstration of the Marcos administration’s resolve to deliver justice and protect the public from organized crime.
“This case proves that our law enforcement institutions, when fully supported, are capable of solving even the most complex crimes without resorting to violence or extrajudicial means,” Speaker Romualdez, the leader of the 306-strong House of Representatives, said.
“We commend the PNP, led by General Marbil, for showing that the rule of law works when we are united in purpose and committed to due process,” Speaker Romualdez, a lawyer from the University of the Philippines (UP), added.
The House chief also thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his unwavering support to the PNP in tracking down and apprehending the suspects.
“The commitment to quickly resolve this case is a testament to President Marcos’ strong leadership and commitment to keeping our communities safe. It shows that under this administration, no criminal will be beyond the reach of justice,” Speaker Romualdez said.
The suspects—identified as Ricardo Austria David, Raymart Catequista, and David Tan Liao—are now in the custody of the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group.
Liao, a Chinese national, reportedly surrendered and admitted his involvement in the crime.
The other two were arrested in Palawan in a police operation last Friday.
Que, also known as Anson Tan, and his driver, Armanie Pabillo, were reported missing on March 29 after leaving his office in Valenzuela City.
A ransom demand of $20 million was sent to his family via WeChat the following day.
Their bodies were later found in Rodriguez, Rizal, with forensic evidence confirming their identities.
The PNP formed a special investigation task group that coordinated efforts across various units—including the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and the Anti-Cybercrime Group—using CCTV footage, cyber monitoring, and forensic evidence to identify the suspects.
Authorities are now investigating a possible link to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), as well as other potential motives beyond kidnapping for ransom.
Speaker Romualdez said the arrests—achieved through coordination, intelligence work, and technology—underscore the effectiveness of modern policing and inter-agency cooperation.
“This is the kind of law enforcement we need—decisive, coordinated, and most importantly, humane,” Speaker Romualdez said.
Speaker Romualdez reaffirmed the commitment of the House to supporting legislation that enhances law enforcement capabilities, improves inter-agency coordination, and strengthens the criminal justice system.
“Our responsibility is to make sure our laws and institutions work to protect every Filipino,” Speaker Romualdez said.
“We will continue to support efforts that ensure justice is served swiftly, fairly, and within the bounds of the law,” Speaker Romualdez stressed. (
