FBI’s most wanted currently in Iloilo; family seeks public understanding
ILOILO CITY, Philippines —The family of Ilonggo businessman Rey Grabato II, who was recently named by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on its Most Wanted list, confirmed that he is in the Philippines, and has implored the public to exercise restraint on the issue.
Grabato’s namesake father, Mina, Iloilo town mayor Rey Grabato, confirmed to Inquirer on Friday, August 14, that his son is in Iloilo but declined to specify further.
The town mayor refused to further comment on his son’s designation under the FBI list, but only said that he was recovering from a severe stroke.
Article continues after this advertisement
Rey II’s youngest brother, Christopher Rey, released a statement on behalf of their family on Friday evening, stating that neither his brother nor their authorized representatives have received any notice or summons from either Philippine or United States authorities.
He also affirmed his elder brother’s stroke and explained his situation.
“As a consequence of his medical condition, he is currently partially paralyzed and continues to experience significant limitations in his mobility, communication, and cognitive functioning. He remains under continuing medical care, and his family’s immediate priority is his treatment, rehabilitation, and well-being,” Christopher Rey Grabato said in a statement on his personal Facebook account.
The FBI on Thursday, August 13 (Philippine time) announced that Rey Grabato II had been added to its Most Wanted Fraudsters list for conspiracy to commit securities fraud, securities fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to defraud the United States with respect to tax.
Article continues after this advertisement
The youngest Grabato assured that they would address the matter in the proper forum and comply with any required legal processes.
Article continues after this advertisement
Christopher Rey also sought to discuss the legal matters in another public statement, particularly regarding his older brother’s role with the National Realty Investment Advisors (NRIA), which is the subject of the current controversy.
He cited the description of Rey II’s role by financial publication Barron’s, published by the Dow Jones & Company, citing federal prosecutors who allegedly characterized Mr. Grabato’s leadership role at NRIA as “titular.”
Christopher Rey then pointed out that the agency’s governance was actually helmed by Thomas Nicholas Salzano, whom had already previously been apprehended by federal authorities. /dl