Preliminary probe to decide Ang’s inclusion in missing sabungeros case

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) will conduct a preliminary investigation to determine whether businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang can be included as an additional accused in the missing sabungero case already before the Manila Regional Trial Court, Branch 185, Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon said Thursday.

“There will be a preliminary investigation. The additional respondent will be given a chance to refute the allegation,” Fadullon said at a press conference.

Former Ang aide Julie “Dondon” Patidongan is the main accused in the kidnapping and serious illegal detention case before the Manila court.

Fadullon said the re-investigation could result in the possible dropping of Patidongan as an accused and inclusion of Ang.

“He can still be included there, which is why a preliminary investigation is needed to determine if there is really evidence,” he said.

Both Dondon and his brother Ellakim were dropped in the most recent case of kidnapping with homicide, while a kidnapping and serious illegal detention case was filed against Ang and 21 others.

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Dondon testified how Ang instructed giving “punishment” to cheating sabungeros, while Ellakim is an eyewitness to how the sabungeros were transported and killed.

“Those pieces of evidence were not available during that time when the case was filed and investigated. So that will be taken into account,” Fadullon said, referring to the re-investigation that will be conducted. /jpv