The Department of Justice has found prima facie evidence to charge gaming tycoon Atong Ang and multiple police officers over the disappearance of several “sabungeros,” leading to 26 criminal informations set for filing in regional trial courts in Lipa City, Sta. Cruz, and San Pablo, Laguna.
Prosecutors said Ang and numerous co-respondents will face 10 counts of kidnapping with homicide and 16 counts of kidnapping with serious illegal detention. Those indicted include PLtCol. Ryan Jay Orapa and several other police personnel allegedly involved in the abductions.
Some complaints were dismissed but may be revived should new evidence surface.
Ang’s counsel, Gabriel Villareal, sharply criticized the DOJ resolution, calling it “deeply flawed and grossly unfair,” asserting that the ruling “relied heavily on the flawed testimoy of a lone witness whose integrity is irreversibly compromised.” He said the defense will move for reconsideration.
Ang was accused by former aide Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, who claimed the victims were abducted, killed, and dumped into Taal Lake under Ang’s orders.
Ang has denied the allegations, countering that Patidongan attempted to extort ₱300 million to avoid dragging him into the case.