Actor Ken Chan recently broke his silence following an unsuccessful attempt by authorities to serve him a warrant of arrest for syndicated estafa, addressing the allegations in a detailed Instagram post on Thursday. The case involves Chan’s business, Café Claus, which, according to him, was a legitimate venture that eventually failed due to unforeseen circumstances. He emphasized, “Hindi po ako nanloko ng tao, naitayo po ang negosyo ngunit hindi ito nagtagumpay,” clarifying that the business was established in good faith and failed due to reasons beyond his control.
The controversy began last Friday when police arrived at Chan’s residence in Quezon City with an arrest warrant. Chan, however, was reportedly not at home. This attempt followed a previously unsuccessful one in September when authorities sought to detain him over his alleged involvement in a significant investment scam.
Chan, along with seven other individuals, faces charges of syndicated estafa, which is a severe offense under Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code and is classified as non-bailable, carrying a punishment of life imprisonment. This specific charge implies a collective scheme intended to defraud, which under Philippine law, requires the involvement of at least five people. The case stems from a complaint filed by an investor, represented by Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada and Atty. Maverick Romero of Estrada & Aquino Law Office. The attorneys allege that Chan and his co-accused solicited around P14 million, promising investors a 10% monthly return through the restaurant business.
In his defense, Chan refuted these allegations, explaining that he did not simply solicit money without intent to deliver returns, as claimed by the complainants. He further alleged that some business partners sabotaged Café Claus, leading to its downfall and damage to his reputation. “Hindi po ako nanghingi lang ng pera at nanloko tulad ng akusasyon sa akin. Nalugi po ang Café Claus at isa sa malaking dahilan na rin ay dahil sa ilang business partners naming na nagplano para pabagsakin ang kumpanya at patuloy na sirain ang aking pangalan,” Chan stated, emphasizing that his intention was always to operate a successful business.
Chan also indicated that he would provide further details about his business’s failure in due time. For now, he said he prefers to let the legal process address the issue. “Lumalaban po ako at hindi tumatakbo palayo sa isinampang kaso sa akin,” he declared, asserting that he is not evading the charges. Chan expressed confidence that this accusation would not derail his career, which he had built over more than a decade, and he believes in a promising future that aligns with his faith.
The actor concluded his statement by expressing gratitude for the support he has received from his fans and asking for their prayers. Chan’s public response marks his first detailed reaction to the scandal, amid growing media and public scrutiny over his involvement in Café Claus’s financial troubles.
This case has drawn significant attention, not only because of the involvement of a high-profile actor but also due to the legal implications of syndicated estafa, a charge that can lead to a lifetime prison sentence if proven. With his legal battle ahead, Chan’s response signals his resolve to clear his name and continue his career despite the allegations.