Some missing sabungeros kin admit receiving P20k from Atong Ang's lawyer

Several relatives of the missing cockfight enthusiasts have admitted to receiving P20,000 from the lawyer of businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang.

But, according to a report in “24 Oras” on Tuesday, they clarified that they did not settle the case. They claimed it was a one-time assistance, which they used the amount to fund the processing of the case.

They also denied allegations that they are being paid P40,000 monthly.

The families also denied claims that they have been skipping hearings, noting that the most recent hearing was postponed.

In a meeting, the families of the 25 missing individuals requested an investigation into witness Dondon Patidongan. This comes after they heard the side of the jailed security guards in Laguna, who alleged that Patidongan himself abducted the victims.

The families stated that they want the case reinvestigated so as to look into other angles. Patidongan had maintained that he was merely following orders at the time.

“'Yung sinasabi nila na nagpabayad ako, nagpa areglo hindi po totoo 'yun. Nagbigay po si Atty. Caroline ng P20,000 at yung P20,000 po na yun talagang tinanggap ko, pero yun lang po,” said Carmen Malaca, a family member of one of the missing sabungeros.

(What they are saying about me taking a payout or settling the case is not true. Atty. Caroline gave P20,000, and I did accept that P20,000, but that was it.)

“Tulong lang po 'yun na wala kahit anong pirmahan. Sa halagang P20,000, malaking tulong po yun para sa aming mga kasama. Ipagpapalit niyo yung hustisya sa halagang P20,000? Syempre hindi di ba?,” said Eloisa Bohol.

(That was just assistance with no strings attached—we didn't sign anything. The P20,000 was a big help for us family members. Would you trade justice for P20,000? Of course not.) — Vince Angelo Ferreras/BAP, GMA News