DOJ to start prelim probe into missing sabungeros case

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has concluded its evaluation stage of the investigation into the case of missing cockfight enthusiasts, known as 'sabungeros', and will proceed to a preliminary investigation.

Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon announced that prosecutors have completed their evaluation and will start issuing subpoenas once they receive the records of the case.

Fadullon noted that the preliminary investigation is scheduled to determine if the case should be filed in court, though specific dates are yet to be determined by a panel of prosecutors.

A whistleblower, Julie Patidongan, previously identified 20 individuals allegedly involved in ordering the killings of sabungeros within the cockfighting industry, including gaming tycoon Charlie Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto.

Both Ang and Barretto have denied involvement in the disappearances and alleged killings.