FOUR police officers already facing administrative charges in connection with the disappearance of several “sabungeros” (cockfight enthusiasts) are now facing new administrative complaints related to alleged extrajudicial killings (EJKs) during the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign.
Milagros Estacio and Elizabeth Sotto filed the complaints before the National Police Commission (Napolcom), alleging that the same officers involved in the “sabungeros” case were also responsible for the abduction of their sons during separate police anti-drug operations in early 2021.
The officers identified are Lt. Col. Ryan Jay Eliab Orapa, Maj. Mark Philip Simborio Almedilla, Senior Master Sgt. Mark Anthony Aguilo Manrique, and S/Sgt. Edmon Hernandez Muñoz.
The complainants believe the cases are connected, with the same group of people involved in both the “sabungeros” disappearances and the alleged EJKs.
Napolcom Vice Chairperson Rafael Vicente Calinisan acknowledged the new development and assured that due process would be accorded to the policemen. He emphasized the need for a deeper investigation to determine the “real scenario” regarding both the EJK and “sabong” cases. Napolcom has already suspended the 12 police officers tagged in the missing “sabungeros” case for 90 days.
