Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla on Friday, July 4, reiterated the agency’s firm commitment to pursuing justice for the victims in the case of the ‘missing sabungeros’ or cockfighters.
In an interview with the media, Remulla vowed that no lead would be ignored and no suspect spared, regardless of power or wealth.
“Wala kaming binibitawan dito,” Remulla declared.
“Tuloy-tuloy yung aming pagpupunyagi para maayos at malaman natin ang katotohanan sa mga kaso,” he added.
Remulla made the remarks before meeting with the families of the missing sabungeros players at the DOJ main office.
The case, which centers on the mysterious disappearances of 34 individuals linked to online cockfighting operations, has remained unresolved since it first made headlines in 2022.
However, according to self-proclaimed whistleblower Julie Patidongan, also known as “Totoy,” the actual number of missing sabungeros could be over 100.
Remulla maintained his stance against the alleged powerful individuals behind the case, emphasizing the need to resist influence and manipulation by wealth or public relations.
On July 2, Patidongan claimed that businessman Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto were the alleged masterminds behind the disappearance and deaths of several cockfighters.
Following Patidongan revelation, both Ang and Barretto are now officially included in the ongoing investigation into the case.
Ang, however, has denied all allegations against him and files multiple criminal complaints against the alleged whistleblower.
“Hindi namin titigilan ito talagang kailangan ng hustisya,” he emphasized in a separate interview with the media.
“Alam mo ang kaluluwa natin bilang mga Pilipino ang nakataya rito. Dapat dito hindi tayo pumapayag na pera pera lang ang naging Panginoon ng mga Pilipino, hindi dapat ganoon,” he said.
Remulla also acknowledged the significant challenges in pursuing the case, noting the influence and resources of those allegedly involved.
He pointed out that the suspects have strong public relations machinery and substantial financial power, which may have contributed to delays in achieving justice.
“Malakas ang PR nila, napakarami nilang pera,” the Justice Secretary remarked.
According to Remulla, the case build-up is nearing a critical point, with charges to be filed soon not only against police officers but also other personalities, including local officials, whose names are now being verified.
“Meron kami record dyan,” he said when asked about a named vice mayor. “Pero mahirap magsalita kagad.”
The DOJ has vowed to keep the families of the victims informed and engaged as developments continue.
