THE FAMILY of EJ Karl Intia, the 19-year-old University of Makati student who died of injuries allegedly inflicted during initiation rites of Alpha Phi Omega (APO) fraternity members last month, expressed dismay over the decision of a Makati judge on Friday to dismiss the case against four of 16 suspects named in the case.

Citing lack of probable cause, Judge Honorio Guanlao, of Makati regional trial court Branch 57, dismissed the hazing charges against John Marin, Michael Pagulayan, Rosel Wenceslao and Rico Mansalapus, and ordered their release.

The four, along with another suspect who is a minor, earlier surrendered to police and reportedly admitted that they took part in the initiation rites.

Oscar Intia, the victim?s father, told the Philippine Daily Inquirer Saturday that he was surprised with the decision.

?Ano pa bang hinahanap nilang probable cause? Malinaw naman, nandyan yung katawan ng anak ko at may mga sumuko [What probable cause are they still looking for? There was a body and there were people who surrendered],? he said.

The fraternity?s initiation rites were allegedly conducted at a house in Barangay (village) San Antonio, Makati City, on August 14. The victim?s body was found in a ravine in Laguna province the following day Intia also reiterated his appeal for justice to Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr., whose father, Vice President Jejomar Binay, is a member of APO.

He would also talk to Assistant Prosecutor Lody Tancioco, who recommended the filing of the charges regarding legal steps he may pursue, Intia added.

Guanlao required the prosecution to submit additional evidence against the accused, after police presented as sole evidence an affidavit of police personnel who facilitated the surrender of the four frat members.

Eleven other suspects remain at large.