Probers complete evaluation of missing ‘sabungeros’ case

Taal Volcano (Arianne Lacanilao/PCI Photo)

By Benjamin Pulta, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) has completed the evaluation stage of its probe into the case of dozens of missing ‘sabungeros’ (cockfight enthusiasts).

“The evaluation of the cases pertaining to the missing sabungeros have been completed and it will now be subjected to preliminary investigation. Subject to the receipt by the panel of the records, subpoenas will be issued for the conduct of the preliminary investigation on dates to be determined by the (prosecution) panel,” Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon told reporters on Wednesday.

He declined to name who would be summoned for the preliminary investigation.

Whistleblower Julie Patidongan earlier named a group of 20 individuals supposedly in control of the cockfighting industry who ordered the killing of the ‘sabungeros’.

“No details can be released just yet in deference to the panel that will conduct the investigation,” Fadullon explained.

Diving operations in Taal Lake where Patidongan claimed the remains of victims are disposed are ongoing and resulted in the recovery of partial remains.