11 suspects in missing pharma CEO charged

MANILA, Philippines (Updated 12:20 p.m.) — Criminal charges were filed yesterday before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against 11 people believed to be involved in the disappearance of a chief executive officer of a pharmaceutical company in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig last July.

In a complaint filed before the DOJ National Prosecution Service, the Philippine National Police Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) said the suspects should be subjected to a preliminary investigation for kidnapping for ransom, murder and arson in connection with the disappearance of Eduardo Tolosa Jr.

The charge sheet was signed by six complainants represented by lawyer and former presidential spokesman Harry Roque.

Tolosa, 50, was reported missing by his nephew on July 21.

Prior to this, investigators said Tolosa was last seen alive in a Toyota Land Cruiser on July 19 when he reportedly picked up P5.7 million in cash and two expensive watches from his personal assistant in Bonifacio Global City.

Closed-circuit television footage showed Tolosa traversing C5 Road going to South Luzon Expressway.

After a few days, police found the burned sport utility vehicle of Tolosa in San Luis, Pampanga.

Authorities said they discovered human skeletal remains of the victim in Barangay San Juan, Batangas, but have yet to confirm the findings.