The relatives of the missing cockfighting enthusiasts have filed administrative complaints before the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) against two police officers over the alleged interference in the ongoing investigation.

In a press briefing at the NAPOLCOM Central Office in Quezon City on Wednesday, May 20, the complainants accused Police Lieutenant Nadame Malang, spokesperson of the PNP Highway Patrol Group, and Police Major Reynaldo Pañebe Jr. of the PNP Custodial Center of allegedly assisting and facilitating their visit to detained police officers previously ordered dismissed from service due to their alleged involvement in the controversial case.

The complainants also claimed that several original complainants had withdrawn after allegedly receiving ₱40,000 in monthly financial support in exchange for backing out of the case.

According to the group, they were allegedly approached by Atty. Caroline Cruz, who was reportedly representing the camp of businessman Atong Ang, was encouraged to speak with the detained officers at Camp Crame.

In response, NAPOLCOM Commissioner Ralph Calinisan ordered the Commission’s Inspection, Monitoring, and Investigation Service to conduct a motu proprio investigation into the possible administrative liabilities of the involved police personnel.

“Wala po kaming ibang agenda kundi ilabas ang katotohanan at ibigay ang hustisyang inaasahan ng taumbayan,” Calinisan said, stressing that any attempt to improperly influence complainants or interfere with justice would not be tolerated.

NAPOLCOM also recalled that it had earlier ordered the dismissal of 12 police personnel linked to the missing sabungeros case after finding substantial evidence for multiple counts of grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer.

The Commission assured the public that all complaints connected to the case will continue to be investigated fairly and impartially as part of efforts to uphold accountability and integrity within the police organization.