Makati ends preliminary probe of Dacera case

MANILA, Philippines — The Makati City prosecutor’s office has concluded the preliminary investigation hearings for the rape with homicide complaint filed against 11 friends of 23-year-old flight attendant Christine Dacera, exactly 47 days since her death.

The prosecutor submitted for resolution the complaint after the respondents filed on Wednesday their rejoinder to the reply-affidavit filed by the lawyers of Sharon Dacera, the complainant and victim’s mother.

The prosecutor was expected to soon issue a resolution either dismissing the complaint or indicting the respondents before the court.

Mike Santiago, lawyer for five of the respondents, said they were confident the complaint would be dismissed due to lack of strong evidence against them.

“All of the respondents are one in saying that there was no rape and homicide, based on the evidence and scientific findings of medicolegal officers,” he added.

—Dexter Cabalza