Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla on Friday confirmed that fifteen police officers allegedly involved in the case of ‘missing sabungeros’ or cockfighters are under “restricted movement” and are facing impending criminal charges.
“Na-restricted sila, restricted movement sila,” he told reporters following his meeting with the victims’ families.
“Doon na papunta yun,” Remulla added when asked if charges would be filed.
Remulla explained that these officers are currently on restricted duty and have been ordered to report regularly to their supervisors while investigations are ongoing.
“They have to report already to officers para doon na sila para hindi na sila makasakit,” he stressed.
Whistleblower alyas ‘Totoy’ under protection
Remulla also confirmed that Julie Patidongan, alias “Totoy”, the self-proclaimed whistleblower who identified businessman tycoon Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto as alleged masterminds, is now under the protective custody of the Philippine National Police.
On July 3, Ang earlier denied the accusations and filed 5 criminal complaints against Patidongan and another individual, Alan Bantiles, alias “Brown," accusing them of extortion and other serious offenses.
On the same day, Ang's camp expressed strong opposition to the move to designate his former farm, Patidongan, as a state witness in the case.
Meanwhile, Remulla confirmed that Patidongan is now under the protection of the Philippine National Police, with the Witness Protection Program also coordinating efforts to ensure his safety.
“Oo, under protection ng PNP,” he stressed.
He also revealed that Patidongan had already submitted a signed sworn statement, along with other key evidence, including a USB device handed over to investigators.
“Meron kami nakuha,” Remulla said about the USB.
When asked about recent developments in the case, Remulla said investigators are following "good leads" pointing to the possibility that some of the victims’ bodies may have been disposed of in Taal Lake.
“May mga lead kami. At may mga testimony kami na nag-testify kung saan maaari hinulog itong mga tao na nawawala,” he said.
Remulla revealed that the Philippine government has officially sought assistance from the Japanese government for underwater search technologies, including sea-bed mapping equipment.
“We signed the letter for the Japanese government asking for assistance para magkaroon tayo ng sea-bed mapping at iba pang mga capabilities, technology na kailangan natin,” Remulla told reporters.
“Dapat kasi dito scientific approach eh, hindi puwedeng tsamba-tsamba ‘to,” he added.
While no formal reply has been received from Japan, Remulla emphasized that exchanges are ongoing regarding equipment and technical support.
