Recently, shocking news has emerged from the Chinese business community in the Philippines: a leader in the steel industry, who holds significant influence, is suspected to have been kidnapped, attracting widespread attention.
Known within the business circles as the "Angelic Trader" (abbreviated as AT), this entrepreneur not only plays a key role in the steel industry but is also a major donor to several charitable projects of the Chinese business groups.
Reliable sources revealed that AT was abducted by kidnappers while dining at a well-known seafood restaurant in the Metro Manila area. The operation was carried out swiftly and discreetly. It is indicated that this kidnapping might be the work of the same criminal group involved in the previous "British School Student Kidnapping Case," which has recently targeted upper-class individuals with brutal methods and clear objectives.
Initially, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of 120 million pesos. After discreet negotiations, a settlement of 100 million pesos was reached, and AT was recently released. It is understood that AT actively participates in social activities and usually travels with only a driver, without any bodyguards.
This incident has quickly spread among the Chinese business community, raising concerns. Many business leaders are calling for the authorities to strengthen security measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.
Additionally, other kidnapping cases targeting Chinese businessmen have also occurred recently. For example, in June 2024, two executives of a Chinese medical equipment company were kidnapped and killed in the Philippines, drawing broad attention.
In response to these malicious incidents, Chinese businessmen in the Philippines should heighten their vigilance, enhance their personal security measures, avoid going out alone, especially at night or in remote areas. It is also advisable to maintain close contact with local law enforcement to ensure rapid assistance in emergency situations.
