3 big business groups demand reforms, justice for slain Anson Que, driver

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MANILA, Philippines — Prominent business groups on Thursday called for justice and sweeping reforms to restore public safety in the wake of the brutal killing of businessman and philanthropist Anson Que and his driver.

This killing of Que and his driver, Armanie Pabillo, is “a grotesque violation of humanity,” the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) and Philippine Exporters Confederation (PhilExport) said in a joint statement.

“With outrage and grief, we deplore in the strongest possible terms the heinous, barbaric kidnapping and brutal murders of Mr. Anson Que — a businessman, a pillar of philanthropy –and his driver, whose life was equally precious, equally sacred,” the statement read.

“These acts are not merely crimes; they are an assault on the soul of our nation, a grotesque violation of humanity itself, and a declaration of war against the principles of justice, decency and peace that bind us as a society.”

Highlighting the significant contributions of Que and Pabillo, the statement described Que as a  compassionate entrepreneur and Pabillo, a dedicated worker.

“Anson Que was more than a name; he was a testament to the power of enterprise wedded to compassion. His driver, Armanie Pabillo whose name we must also etch into our collective memory, was a father, a son, a worker,” the business groups said,

They also urged systemic reforms to strengthen law enforcement and eradicate the culture of impunity.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed to the Inquirer on Thursday that Que and his driver had been found dead on April 3 in Rodriguez, Rizal.