Ouano kin dangle P1M for killer's arrest

CEBU, Philippines - A month after the murder of businessman Antonio “Tony” Ouano at the Reclamation Area in Mandaue City, his family is offering a P1 million reward for anyone who can give information on the identity of his killers.

The reward was announced during a press conference called for by the family’s lawyer Deolito Alvarez and the late businessman’s son Antonio “Tonypeth” Ouano Jr. at the Mandaue City Police Office with city police director Sr. Supt. Noel Gillamac and Task Force Ouano head Supt. James Goforth.

During yesterday’s press conference Alvarez announced the reward will be given to the person who could give information leading to the arrest and conviction of the one responsible for the killing.

Antonio Jr., who is a town councilor in Getafe, Bohol, yesterday said that family and friends decided to raise a big reward to encourage informants to come out in the open.

“I believe this substantial amount is a much higher cash reward than that of the gunman because after all the family is very much after the mastermind,” Gillamac said.

Aside from the cash reward that informant will also be provided police security and placed under the DOJ witness protection program, Gillamac added.

Tony was gunned down as he rushed to the Regional Trial Court Branch 11 in front of the Mandaue City Hall to attend a hearing of the case filed against him by his younger sister Vilma.

He was waiting for the traffic light to turn green in his Toyota Hi-Lux Surf when two men on a motorcycle drove up beside him and the passenger shot and killed him.

Alvarez said Tony’s death was not only a loss to his family but also to his employees as he had several businesses not only here in Cebu but also inBohol, Negros and Mindanao as well.

When asked about the status of their relationship with their aunt Vilma, Antonio Jr. only said that they have not talked after his father’s death.

Alvarez also told reporters that the family is satisfied with how the police are conducting the investigation. —/BRP (FREEMAN)