A vital witness in the controversial case involving the disappearance of several “sabungeros” or cockfighting enthusiasts is now under the protective custody of the Philippine National Police (PNP). This was confirmed by PNP Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil through a statement made by PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo and Southern Police District (SPD) Director Brigadier General Leon Victor Rosete Torre.
This development comes amid ongoing investigations into the mysterious disappearance of more than two dozen sabungeros across the country, a case that has gripped national attention since it began making headlines. The disappearance of the cockfighting fans, many of whom were last seen at arenas or involved in e-sabong operations, has raised concerns about corruption, criminal syndicates, and possible police involvement.
According to Torre, the whistleblower voluntarily surrendered to the authorities after claiming he feared for his life. The man had previously provided details linking influential individuals to the forced abductions and alleged killings of sabungeros in recent years.
“He is now under the care of the PNP and is being closely monitored to ensure his safety,” Torre said. He emphasized that the witness came forward not only out of fear, but also due to the weight of his conscience. “The man couldn’t sleep. He decided to come forward because he couldn’t live with what he knew.”
This witness reportedly holds key information that may break open the stalled investigations into the disappearance of at least 34 individuals, many of whom were connected to cockfighting operations that flourished during the height of the online sabong boom. Some were last seen in arenas, while others disappeared without a trace from their homes or while traveling.
According to SPD sources, the man has started to cooperate with authorities and has given an initial statement. Though details remain confidential, officials believe his testimony could shed light on how the victims were targeted, who ordered their abductions, and where some of them may have been taken.
Investigators are now working on validating the man’s statements through corroborating evidence and testimonies. Torre said the PNP is coordinating with other law enforcement units and intelligence divisions to cross-check the information shared by the whistleblower.
This latest revelation adds a new layer to a case that has long frustrated families of the missing sabungeros, many of whom have been clamoring for justice for over two years. Several of them have appeared in Senate inquiries and press briefings, tearfully pleading with government officials to give the case priority and bring the perpetrators to justice.
In previous Senate hearings, senators criticized the pace and perceived lack of urgency in the investigation. Some legislators questioned why the suspects identified by families and media reports remained free and why progress had been slow despite the high-profile nature of the case.
One theory raised during the hearings suggested the involvement of a powerful network behind the disappearances, potentially including law enforcers, gambling syndicates, and individuals with deep connections in both local and national governments.
At the time, several people were arrested and charged with kidnapping, but the cases stalled due to a lack of direct witnesses and physical evidence. The surfacing of this new witness could shift the direction of the investigations and reignite efforts to hold those responsible accountable.
When asked whether the witness is considered part of the group behind the abductions, Torre said that will depend on how the investigation unfolds. “Right now, we’re treating him as a witness and potential whistleblower. But his level of involvement, if any, will be evaluated as we go deeper into his claims.”
Security protocols have been set in place to ensure the man’s safety, as law enforcers acknowledge the risks involved. Torre noted that the whistleblower has already expressed concern for his family and relatives, which is why part of the protective measures includes relocation and anonymity.
Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has expressed support for the PNP’s effort to secure the whistleblower. He also assured the public that the Department of Justice will continue to assist in prosecuting those involved, once enough evidence is gathered.
“This is a major development,” Remulla said. “We hope this leads to real accountability. The families of the missing deserve answers.”
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) also weighed in on the matter, urging the authorities to ensure that the rights of the witness are fully respected, while emphasizing that the families of the victims should be kept informed of progress.
Some relatives of the missing sabungeros have expressed cautious optimism. One mother, whose son disappeared in early 2022, said she hopes this is not another dead end. “We’ve heard promises before,” she said. “But if this man really knows what happened, then maybe, just maybe, we’ll finally know the truth.”
It remains unclear whether the whistleblower was directly involved in any operations, or if he merely served as an observer or informant. His background is being kept confidential, but sources say he had firsthand knowledge of how the victims were identified and taken.
Online sabong, once a booming industry in the Philippines, was eventually shut down due to widespread reports of corruption, addiction, and criminal activity. During its peak, it generated billions of pesos and involved high-stakes games broadcast live on the internet. The shutdown came after increasing public pressure, numerous complaints, and the growing list of missing individuals allegedly connected to the industry.
As of this writing, none of the missing sabungeros have been found. Their families continue to hope that one day they’ll receive answers—or at the very least, closure.
The PNP says the investigation will now shift focus on leads provided by the witness. Forensics teams, intelligence operatives, and legal experts have been called in to assist.
Torre stressed that they are committed to uncovering the full extent of the case, regardless of who may be implicated. “If this leads us to powerful people, so be it. The law should be the same for everyone,” he said.
The reemergence of the case in headlines may also renew public pressure on law enforcement and government agencies to act more swiftly. Advocacy groups are already mobilizing online, calling for a full and transparent investigation.
Meanwhile, the whistleblower remains in a secure location, away from public view. His statements are expected to be taken formally under oath in the coming days. Legal proceedings and case-building are underway as the PNP coordinates with the Department of Justice to pursue new angles in the long-running mystery.
As the families wait with bated breath, the nation watches closely—hoping that this key development will finally bring answers to one of the country’s most haunting unresolved cases.