PNP: Report on cops tagged in sabungeros case out by week’s end

MOURNFUL FAMILIES Although the pain of uncertainty about the fate of their loved ones is still etched on their faces, relatives of the missing sabungeros or cockfighting aficionados are hopeful that new information will take them closer to the truth during their visit to the Department of Justice on Friday, July 4, 2025. — Photo by Niño Jesus Orbeta

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is expecting the preliminary report in the investigation into the police officers allegedly involved in the abduction of cockfighting enthusiasts (sabungeros) by the end of this week.

This came after PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III confirmed that 15 police officers tagged in the case had already been placed in restrictive custody at Camp Crame.

“We expect that before this week ends, the (administrative) case against them would be possible, after the report is done,” PNP Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said in a press briefing at Camp Crame on Tuesday.

“We will see in that report who will be subjected to an admin case with respect to the case of the sabungeros,” she added.

The National Police Commission (Napolcom) launched an investigation into the alleged involvement of police officers late last June, vowing administrative sanctions, including dismissal from the service, if personnel were proven guilty.

This came after whistleblower Julie Patidongan, also known by the alias Totoy, alleged that businessman Atong Ang had police officers on his payroll to abduct and kill the sabungeros.

Torre previously said that of the 15 police officers under restrictive custody, 11 were on active duty, one was retired, and three were already dismissed before they were tagged in the case.

What does restrictive custody mean? Fajardo said the officers held in restrictive custody will be kept in Camp Crame but may visit their homes only if they have a police escort.

READ: Torre: 15 cops tagged in sabungeros’ case under ‘restrictive custody’

As for the criminal case, the PNP spokesperson reiterated that the agency deferred to the Department of Justice (DOJ) but was ready to extend assistance with the investigation if requested.

Despite refusing to divulge details, Fajardo assured, “Based on the briefings I’ve attended, there is good progress here in this ongoing investigation.”

READ: Napolcom investigates if cops were involved in missing ‘sabungeros’ case

Probing other locations

Patidongan also claimed the sabungeros were killed, tied to sandbags, and thrown into Taal Lake in Batangas.

However, Torre said the police were looking for the sabungeros’ remains not only at Taal Lake but also at other locations, based on information from other witnesses.

“Some security protocols are being implemented not only with respect to the personal security of Alias Totoy but also at the possible places that may have been used to hide the possible remains of the missing sabungeros.” Fajardo said.

She also refused to specify the locations, citing the agency’s concern that evidence may be tampered with if the information was made public.

Meanwhile, according to the DOJ, the search of Taal Lake may take place within the week.

The department previously said it was considering the help of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard’s technical divers.

READ: Aside from Taal Lake, PNP looks at other sites in search of ‘sabungeros’

Other witnesses

According to Fajardo, the PNP already took a sworn statement from Patidongan. However, she appealed to other possible witnesses to come forward to help corroborate Patidongan’s claims.

“That is now the direction of the investigating unit, to look for other witnesses who could help us pinpoint accountability and place the criminal liability on the right people,” Fajardo said. /das