• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
A P25,000 reward was given to an informant, following the recovery of the painting of national artist Fernando Amorsolo stolen from a private museum in Silay City, Negros Occidental on July 3, Mayor Joedith Gallego said yesterday.
The amount was personally offered by Gallego for information that could lead the investigators to the 88-year-old painting with the title “Mango Harvesters”.
On July 11, operatives of the National Bureau of Investigation-Special Task Force (NBI-STF) arrested two suspects who attempted to sell the stolen artwork during an entrapment operation in Quezon City.
In a statement, NBI Director Jaime Santiago said the painting was offered to be sold for P3.5 million although the masterpiece is said to be valued at P10 million.
Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said the “successful operation is a proud moment and a testament to unwavering dedication, relentless investigative efforts, and outstanding coordination of our law enforcement agencies.”
“This will serve as a reminder for Negrenses to remain vigilant in protecting and ensuring the preservation of our cultural treasures,” he added. | GB
