The Filipino-Chinese community is shocked by the major breakthrough in the kidnapping and murder case of steel magnate Anson Tan (Anson Que). The police confirmed that the prime suspect, David Tan Liao, had a long-term close relationship with the victim. Both were not only leaders in important Filipino-Chinese organizations but also frequently appeared together at public events, showing a significant "acquaintance crime" pattern.
The "Celebrity" of the Community with Multiple Identities
Investigations revealed that this active member of the Chinese community, Mr. Liao, used at least three aliases ("Yang Jianmin", "Xiao Changjiang", "Michael Agad Yung"), and had long infiltrated various overseas Chinese organizations. The police particularly noted that at a development promotion meeting in August 2024, Liao, appearing as "Yang Jianmin" and serving as the "Executive Vice President", interacted closely with Anson Tan, who was the "Permanent Honorary President". Photos and records from the scene have been key evidence.
The Crime Network Emerges
As the investigation deepened, Liao's background revealed alarming complexity:
Just appointed as the chairman of the "Filipino-Chinese Dragon Association" in January 2025
Suspected in at least five kidnapping and murder cases targeting Chinese citizens
The criminal gang is suspected to be linked to the offshore gambling (POGO) black industry chain
Accomplices have been arrested in Palawan, and a Chinese suspect has surrendered
The case confirms the "acquaintance crime" pattern, causing great unease among the overseas Chinese business community. An anonymous Chinese businessman expressed, "Community positions and social activities should be a guarantee of credibility, but now they have become a cover for crime." The police are reconstructing the suspect's social network by retrieving community records, communication logs, and immigration data.
Investigators revealed that this case might involve a larger transnational criminal system. The Philippine National Police has established a special task force to focus on tracking down fugitive accomplices and financial flows. As more evidence is disclosed, this shocking case in the Filipino-Chinese society may unveil new secrets of cross-border organized crime.
