INCLUSION of Vince Mangulabnan's name caught just about everybody by surprise when the PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) recommended filing of criminal charges over the Ateneo tragedy in Dipaculao, Aurora last June 8.
The current head coach of the Blue Eagles' men’s volleyball team, Mangulabnan was among nine school officials and staff recommended charged with two counts of homicide and two counts of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide.
His inclusion, however, stemmed from his concurrent role as Ateneo's sports facility officer - and not necessarily a direct link to the ill-fated team-building involving the men’s basketball team that claimed the lives of Blue Eagles Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
After the recommendation became public, Vince’s sister, Galeries Tower setter Maji Mangulabnan, came out swinging in defense of her brother.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, Maji said Ateneo's handling of the situation has already caused irreparable damage to Vince.
“Yes, we will not be silenced,” she wrote.
“While the investigation is still ongoing, ADMU’s failure to stand by someone who was simply doing his job is already causing irreversible damage to his career, his reputation, and his family’s future.”
She then furthered by directing more frustration at the university.
“Are you even real, ADMU? Is this really how you stand by the people who tirelessly work for you? May maituro lang talaga, no," she added.
“I will not forgive any slander against my brother!”
Their mother, Nooky Mangulabnan, likewise stood firmly behind Vince, saying the coach has spent years earning his place in the sport and refusing to let his name be besmirched.
“My son has worked so hard to be where he is right now. He built a name in his volleyball and coaching career,” the family matriarch wrote.
“I will not allow any institution to destroy his well established reputation and integrity. We will not be silenced.”
Who's who
Along with Mangulabnan and now-resigned men’s basketball shot-caller Tab Baldwin, those named in the CIDG recommendation were athletic director Em Fernandez, strength and conditioning coaches Grant Dearns and Ceasar Vincent Elumba, assistant coaches Dean Castaño, Sandro Soriano, and Jon Jacinto, and physical therapist John Eric Rueca.
READ: DILG backtracks on charges vs Ateneo student managers, utilities
The CIDG recommendation will still undergo preliminary investigation for prosecutors to determine whether probable cause exists to formally file charges.
At this stage, the recommendation is not a finding of guilt, and all respondents will have the opportunity to answer allegations through the Department of Justice’s preliminary investigation process.
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