MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has formally filed kidnapping-related criminal cases against businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang in connection with the long-running and still-unresolved disappearance of several cockfighting enthusiasts, marking a major escalation in one of the country’s most closely watched crime investigations.
DOJ spokesperson Polo Martinez said informations for kidnapping with homicide and kidnapping and serious illegal detention were filed on December 19 before regional trial courts in Lipa City, Sta. Cruz, Laguna, and San Pablo City, Laguna, following prosecutors’ finding of probable cause.
“Under the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure, the courts where the informations are filed will issue the corresponding warrants of arrest upon determination of the existence of probable cause based on the evidence submitted and the resolution of the panel of prosecutors,” Martinez told reporters.
In its resolution, the DOJ said prosecutors gave credence to the sworn statements of whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan and his brother Ellakim, who allegedly identified Ang as having directed and encouraged the abduction operations. Prosecutors cited alleged command responsibility and active inducement based on the testimonies presented.
Ang’s camp has moved to challenge the ruling, with his legal team filing a motion for reconsideration. Martinez said appeals are governed by Department Circular No. 015, which requires resolution within 30 days.
Meanwhile, the DOJ cleared several individuals previously linked to the case. Prosecutors dismissed the complaints against actress Gretchen Barretto, former National Capital Region Police Office chief retired Police General Jonnel Estomo, as well as Ang’s children and other relatives.
The cases stem from the disappearance of multiple sabungeros, which the DOJ has earlier described as allegedly carried out in an organized and methodical manner. Authorities said investigations into related incidents and possible additional liabilities remain ongoing./PN
