The families of the missing sabungeros expressed hope and vigilance following the issuance of arrest warrants against Atong Ang and 17 others.
In a statement, the Justice for Missing Sabungeros Network said the families of the victims have long been waiting for a meaningful step toward accountability and progress in the case.
They said this development is an important sign that their search for justice has not been forgotten.
At the same time, the families called for the law to be enforced fairly and without bias.
If responsibility is proven through due process, including that of Atong Ang, the group believes that those found guilty should be held accountable and jailed in accordance with the law.
In closing, the families stressed that their call is not for revenge, but for justice—justice for the missing sabungeros, for their grieving families, and for Filipinos who have the right to know the truth.
Atong Ang to be placed under Hold Departure Order to prevent him from leaving the country
Following the issuance of arrest warrants, the Department of Justice (DOJ) will next move to secure a Hold Departure Order (HDO) against business tycoon Atong Ang and several other individuals.
According to DOJ spokesperson Polo Martinez, prosecutors will immediately process the HDO before the Regional Trial Court in Sta. Cruz, Laguna to prevent Ang and the other accused from leaving the country while the case is ongoing.
Martinez explained that an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) has already been issued to ensure authorities closely monitor any attempt by the accused to flee the Philippines.
In closing, the DOJ assured that all accused individuals will face trial.
