FOUR individuals have been arrested for the alleged abduction of a Chinese businessman in Pampanga, the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed on Thursday. PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. disclosed the development during a briefing at Camp Crame, reporting that authorities apprehended the suspects in Angeles City after the victim managed to escape captivity earlier this week.
The four were identified only by their aliases: three Chinese nationals known as “XL,” “LHW,” and “Chen Chen,” and a Filipino woman identified as “Radx.”
Police Regional Office Central Luzon director Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez told reporters the victim is a 37‑year‑old Chinese national who owns a local supermarket chain and was visiting the country from China. He was reportedly abducted in front of an establishment along Friendship Highway in Angeles City last Sunday.
The victim secured his own escape two days later by leaping through a window while his captors were asleep after drinking, which led police to the suspects’ location. Mendez noted that one of the accused had been a frequent customer at the victim’s businesses and may have conducted surveillance in advance.
Investigators believe the motive was purely financial, with the kidnappers demanding $1 million — approximately ₱60 million — for his release. The four arrested suspects have already undergone inquest proceedings on charges of kidnapping for ransom and serious illegal detention. However, two more suspects remain at large: another man believed to be Chinese and a second Filipino cohort. Authorities are now coordinating with the Bureau of Immigration and the Chinese Embassy to obtain official records and background information on the foreign nationals allegedly involved in the abduction.
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