As the case of the missing sabungeros continues to unfold, the Philippine National Police (PNP) finds itself at the center of a deepening investigation—both as a lead agency and as a source of potential suspects. With multiple officers now implicated and new revelations shaking public trust, the PNP’s internal probe has become a critical battleground in the search for truth.
Background: Disappearances Tied to E-Sabong
From 2021 to early 2022, at least 34 cockfighting enthusiasts vanished in separate but strikingly similar incidents. All were involved in e-sabong, or online cockfighting—a once-legal and booming gambling enterprise in the Philippines. Most of the victims were last seen in or near cockpit arenas, and some were even caught on CCTV being forcibly taken by unidentified men.
Despite early red flags, the cases languished for months without resolution—until public outcry forced deeper scrutiny.
Allegations Against Police Officers
The Department of Justice has since received a detailed confession from a man known only as “Totoy”, a former security aide turned state witness. In his testimony, Totoy claimed that over 30 individuals, including at least 20 police officers, were directly involved in the abduction and murder of the sabungeros.
These claims have pushed the PNP to confront a troubling possibility: that members of its own ranks participated in a coordinated criminal operation involving torture, execution, and cover-ups.
The PNP’s Internal Investigation
The PNP’s Internal Affairs Service (IAS) and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) are now jointly leading the probe into its own personnel. Key focus areas include:
- Verification of Totoy’s testimony and identification of implicated officers
- Cross-checking police assignments and arena security records during the timeline of the disappearances
- Review of surveillance footage, call logs, and travel manifests connected to the suspects
- Examination of financial transactions possibly tied to gambling profits or hush money
According to sources within the PNP, several officers have already been relieved from duty pending further investigation. However, no names have been officially released.
National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Oversight
The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) is also conducting an independent review of the PNP’s handling of the case. NAPOLCOM is evaluating whether lapses in protocol, delayed reporting, or willful negligence occurred—and whether higher-ranking officers failed to act despite early warnings.
The DOJ has called on NAPOLCOM to ensure that internal disciplinary processes do not stall or shield any personnel from criminal prosecution.
Pressure from the Public and Government
PNP Chief [Insert Name] has vowed full cooperation with the DOJ and emphasized that “no one is above the law—even in uniform.” Still, civil society groups and victims’ families remain skeptical, citing past failures in police accountability.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla warned that the alleged masterminds may attempt to influence the judiciary through financial means, further underscoring the need for airtight legal procedures.
Challenges Facing the PNP Probe
Despite its stated commitment, the PNP faces several hurdles:
- Internal resistance from within the force, particularly in provincial units
- Lack of physical evidence, as the victims’ bodies have not been recovered
- Fear among potential whistleblowers, especially if fellow officers are involved
- Judicial delays and concerns over witness safety
Current Status
- Totoy remains under DOJ custody and is being processed for inclusion in the Witness Protection Program (WPP)
- The search of Taal Lake, where victims were allegedly dumped, continues under military and coast guard supervision
- Multiple leads are being pursued, but no formal charges against police officers have yet been filed publicly
Conclusion: A Test of Institutional Integrity
The PNP’s investigation into its own members marks a critical moment—not just for the sabungeros case, but for the credibility of the national police force itself. With mounting evidence and increasing scrutiny, the probe may determine whether the PNP is capable of holding its ranks accountable—or if the case becomes another unresolved tragedy mired in silence and impunity.
As the nation waits for answers, one thing is clear: justice for the missing sabungeros now hinges as much on internal reform as it does on courtroom proceedings.