This case could have been forgotten if not for the whistleblower, Atong Ang, is a real gangster. He reportedly bribes everybody, and he is not afraid to take down anybody. I heard from one lawyer that he once slapped a lawmaker.
This case highlights the weaknesses of the judicial system and reveals the corruption within the authorities in that region.
The Philippines will become a laughing stock if it cannot solve this case. I consider this a landmark case. The Justice Department is up against a guy who bribed the judicial and police forces to protect him and to keep him innocent.