Families of missing “sabungeros” (cockfight enthusiasts) have filed criminal complaints before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and several others, including police officers.
DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla assured the public that due process will be strictly observed in handling the complaints.
“We do not condemn without listening. What’s important is due process,” Remulla said during a press briefing yesterday, citing the constitutional guarantee that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.
Charlene Lasco, sister of missing sabungero Ricardo Lasco, confirmed that the families filed complaints of multiple murder and serious illegal detention.
“Ang kinasuhan po namin ay yung aming talagang matagal na naming hinala—si Mr. Atong Ang,” said Lasco, noting that other individuals, including policemen, were also named as respondents.
With the filing of the complaint, Lasco urged the DOJ to “masusing pag-aralan at imbestigahan para magkaroon ng probable cause at magkaroon ng basis para maisyuhan na sila ng warrant sa lalong madaling panahon.”
Following the complaint, the DOJ will appoint a panel of prosecutors to conduct a preliminary investigation to determine whether charges should be filed in court against Ang and his co-respondents.
“It’s really up to the prosecution panel to determine kung ano ang tamang gawin sa bawat reklamo na nai-file ngayong araw,” said Remulla.
The secretary stressed, “Ang mahalaga rito ay magkaroon ito ng paglilitis pagdating ng panahon para naman magkaroon ng katahimikan ang isipan ng lahat nating mga Pilipino.”
Remulla added, “As a responsible society, our legal system will not allow this kind of involvement of people in such a heinous crime.” (Jeffrey Damicog)
