Atty. Caroline Cruz, legal representative for businessman Atong Ang, has formally requested the Department of Justice (DOJ) to dismiss the obstruction of justice complaint lodged against her.
The case stems from allegations that she provided illicit payments to families of missing cockfighting enthusiasts, or sabungeros, to influence pending legal matters against her client.
While admitting she met with the relatives, Cruz denies any wrongdoing. Her legal counsel, Atty. Isabella Sabio, asserts that these meetings—conducted in March and April—were initiated solely by the families themselves.
”Attorney Carol’s meetings with the relatives of the victims happened because they asked for them. It is an undeniable fact. To say that a payoff ensued on those encounters is not only preposterous but also a product of a sinful imagination, which must be legally proven by the complainants,” Sabio stated.
The complaint, filed by a group of the victims’ relatives, alleges that money was distributed to weaken their pursuit of justice against Ang. The businessman is currently the subject of multiple arrest warrants regarding the disappearance of over 30 individuals.
In a May 20 press conference at the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), relatives also claimed that two police officials maintained ties with the businessman.
Defending her client against what she described as malicious distortion, Sabio clarified the nature of the financial exchange.
“My client does not deny giving financial aid to the victims’ families during those meetings, for their fare and food, as they all came a long way. She only obliged out of the goodness of her heart,” Sabio said.
The defense insists that the aid was provided without any conditions, signed agreements, or demands.
Sabio emphasized that the lack of illicit intent is supported by counter-affidavits from other relatives who attended the meetings, as well as statements from Cruz’s co-respondents in the case.
The DOJ investigation into the matter remains ongoing.