Manila: Malaca±ang on Thursday assured the public that the government is taking seriously the alleged spate of kidnappings, including the abduction and killing of Filipino-Chinese businessman Anson Que and his driver, and vowed that the matter would not be taken lightly.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has instructed authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and pursue all necessary actions to address rising concerns from the business community. “Patuloy po ang pag-iimbestiga po dito. Hindi po ito tutulugan ng gobyerno (The investigation is ongoing. The government will not sleep on this issue),” Castro said.

This comes amid concerns raised by the Filipino-Chinese business community, which has reported at least 12 kidnapping incidents so far this year. Castro emphasized that the Marcos administration is determined to put a stop to such crimes, assuring the public that the government remains committed to maintaining peace and order.

“Ang lahat po ng nagaganap dito ay pinagbilin po ng Pangulo na dapat imbestigahang mabuti para po ma-lessen o ma-eradicate ang mga ganitong klaseng krimen dito sa Pilipinas (The President has ordered that everything should be thoroughly investigated so that these types of crimes can be lessened or eradicated in the Philippines),” she added.

Que and his driver Armanie Pabillo were found dead in Rodriguez, Rizal, the Philippine National Police reported on Thursday. They were last seen on March 29 leaving their Valenzuela City office, which is engaged in the steel business. Que’s family reported him missing the following day, saying he and his driver did not return home and missed their scheduled appointments. Authorities said the family had asked them to investigate discreetly and requested privacy.