Metro Manila, Philippines – The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced Tuesday, Dec. 9, that it found prima facie evidence sufficient to indict businessman Charlie Tiu Hay Ang, also known as Atong Ang, and 21 other individuals for their alleged roles in the disappearance of several cockfight enthusiasts linked to e-sabong operations.
The DOJ panel said the evidence presented in the consolidated cases of People of the Philippines vs. Charlie Tiu Hay Ang et al. established reasonable certainty of conviction.
It said Ang and 21 other respondents face a total of 10 counts of kidnapping with homicide, while Ang and nine others are facing 16 counts of kidnapping with serious illegal detention, including charges against unidentified police officers allegedly involved in the incidents.
A total of 26 information sheets will be filed in the appropriate courts to initiate trial proceedings. The DOJ also dismissed charges against other respondents due to insufficient direct evidence, noting that the dismissals were “without prejudice” should new evidence emerge.
The government’s investigation into the disappearance of “sabungeros,” which dates back to 2021, was reignited following disclosures from whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, who is also facing kidnapping charges linked to the case.
In interviews with the media, Patidongan claimed that the missing cockfight enthusiasts were abducted, killed by strangulation, and their bodies disposed of in Taal Lake by police officers allegedly acting under orders from his former employer, Ang.
Ang has consistently denied any involvement in the incidents and has filed a criminal complaint against Patidongan for accusing him.
The DOJ, in its statement, said it hopes the courts will hold accountable those responsible for the crimes.
