MANILA, Philippines — A businessman who was abducted in Mandaluyong City has been safely rescued, and three suspects were arrested during a high-stakes police operation in Quezon City. The Philippine National Police-Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) announced the breakthrough on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
The victim, whose identity was withheld for security reasons, was reportedly snatched on February 12 while inspecting his business establishments. His family reported him missing the following day after failing to establish contact.
The Rescue and Arrests
- Suspects Identified: The PNP-AKG identified the arrested individuals as Tristan Primavera Menor, Alvin Grijaldo Bandong, and Mark Dionie Alyes.
- The Raid: Operatives tracked the group to a hideout within a gated village in Quezon City on February 16.
- Ransom Recovered: Authorities managed to recover ₱4 million in cash that the family had paid as ransom, along with a vehicle used in the abduction.
- Initial Payments: Before the cash drop, the family had already sent ₱250,000 to the kidnappers via electronic wallets.
The “Mastermind” Still at Large
PNP-AKG Director Brig. Gen. Glicerio Cansilao confirmed that while the primary henchmen are in custody, the “brains” behind the operation remains at large. The kidnappers had initially demanded a staggering ₱50 million for the victim’s release, but for reasons still under investigation, they accepted the much lower ₱4 million cash offer.
“The victim is now safe and reunited with his family,” Cansilao stated, adding that the suspects had been moving between different hideouts to evade detection before they were finally cornered. The PNP is currently conducting follow-up operations to identify and capture the remaining members of the syndicate.