TWO individuals identified as key figures in the ongoing investigation into the disappearances of cockfighting enthusiasts, known as “sabungeros,” are now in police custody, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo announced on Thursday.
The suspects, siblings of accused and whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, were apprehended in a Southeast Asian country and transferred to the Philippines on July 22.
According to a report by Super Radyo dzBB’s Mark Makalalad, one suspect was captured on CCTV footage withdrawing money using the ATM card of a missing sabungero, while the other was seen escorting another victim during an alleged abduction.
One arrest was made based on an outstanding warrant for robbery, while the other was apprehended for using a false name on his passport. The PNP emphasized that the arrests were conducted legitimately, with full cooperation from the Bureau of Immigration.
The arrests represent a significant development in the investigation into the disappearances of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts between 2021 and 2022.
Patidongan has alleged that the victims were kidnapped due to match-fixing or cheating in cockfighting games and subsequently buried in Taal Lake. He has implicated businessman Atong Ang as the mastermind and linked actress Gretchen Barretto to the disappearances, allegations both individuals have denied. The ongoing investigation continues to unravel the circumstances surrounding these disappearances.
