MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) opened its preliminary investigation into the case of missing sabungeros (cockfight enthusiasts), with gaming tycoon Atong Ang failing to personally attend the proceedings.

Ang was represented by his counsel, Gabriel Villareal, who explained that they were unable to file a counter-affidavit because they received the subpoena only a few days prior. “There are also missing parts of the subpoena, such as the USB drive mentioned in it,” Villareal said.

One of the 60 individuals named in the charge sheet, actress Gretchen Barretto, personally appeared before the prosecution panel and submitted her counter-affidavit. Her lawyer dismissed the allegations of illegal detention and multiple murder as “unsubstantiated.”

Barretto later told reporters that she “trusts” the process will clear her of any wrongdoing.

Also present during the hearing was retired police Lt. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, who had been implicated by whistleblower Julie Patidongan in the alleged abduction and killing of the missing men.

DOJ Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Charlie Guhit said the Philippine National Police plans to submit additional evidence at the next hearing set for Sept. 29. (PNA)