MANILA, Oct. 21 -- The criminal complaint filed against businessman Charlie "Atong" Ang and other individuals in connection with the missing sabungeros (cockfight enthusiasts) has been submitted for resolution, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said on Tuesday.

DOJ spokesperson Raphael Martinez said under DOJ rules, the panel of prosecutors will now determine whether it has "a prima facie case" to file before the courts.

Speaking to newsmen, Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Charlie Guhit said more than four dozen respondents implicated in the alleged disappearance of sabungeros had filed their counter-affidavits.

"The panel of prosecutors declared that the preliminary investigation is already submitted for resolution, that is, after the...