Anson Que son’s statements crucial to probe

Alvin Que, the son of slain businessman Anson Que, has filed a sworn statement that his lawyer says provides crucial information for the prosecution of those responsible for his father’s death.

Que, accompanied by his lawyer Atty. Perlito Campanilla, attended a preliminary hearing at the Department of Justice on a kidnapping for ransom with homicide complaint. Alvin Que is one of six individuals recommended for investigation in the case.

Campanilla disclosed that after the hearing that the statement is vital as it narrates the events from the time of Anson Que’s abduction to his positive identification. He added that the statement also details the protracted and difficult ransom negotiations.

However, Campanilla declined to provide further specifics, citing the sub judice rule and the desire to avoid a public trial.

Campanilla also denied Alvin Que’s involvement in the killing, stating that the Philippine National Police (PNP) has cleared his client.

“There is no evidence pointing to Alvin Que’s involvement in the case and in fact, during the negotiation for the ransom, he asked for proof of life which is very indicative that he really had no involvement,” Campanilla said.

Alvin Que has filed a motion seeking to be removed as a respondent in the complaint. Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon has previously stated that the panel of prosecutors will rule on the motion alongside the complaint itself.

To recall, Anson Que and his driver, Armanie Pabillo, were discovered dead, stuffed inside nylon bags, in a grassy area along a road in Rodriguez, Rizal. They were last seen alive on 29 March after leaving the businessman’s office in Valenzuela City. Autopsy results indicated that both died due to strangulation.

The PNP had previously identified David Tan Liao, Wenli Gong — also known as Kelly Tan Lim — and an unnamed suspect as potential masterminds in the crime. Gong and Wu Ja Ping, described as Gong’s alleged hairdresser, have been arrested by authorities in Boracay.

Wu Ja Ping also attended the preliminary probe, accompanied by authorities.

Campanilla urged anyone with relevant information about the case to come forward.