Two Key Suspects in Missing Sabungeros Case Apprehended Abroad, Returned to Philippines

Two individuals regarded as crucial links in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of several sabungeros have been taken into police custody, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo announced on Thursday. The PNP identified the detainees as siblings related to one of the accused and whistleblower Julie "Dondon" Patidongan. The siblings were apprehended abroad and repatriated on July 22. According to Fajardo, one suspect was identified in CCTV footage withdrawing cash using an ATM card belonging to one of the missing sabungeros. The other was recorded escorting a victim during an alleged abduction incident. One of the men was detained under an existing robbery warrant, while the other was arrested due to falsification of identity on his passport. The police confirmed that these arrests were coordinated with the Bureau of Immigration, ensuring legality and proper procedure. The case involves 34 cockfighting enthusiasts reported missing between 2021 and 2022. Authorities suspect the disappearances stemmed from kidnappings tied to disputes over match fixing or cheating in cockfighting competitions. Whistleblower Patidongan has alleged that the missing individuals were buried in Taal Lake. He further accused businessman Atong Ang of orchestrating the kidnappings and implicated actress Gretchen Barretto in the affair. Both parties have denied the accusations. The PNP continues its probe into the matter as more details emerge.