Twelve Police Officers Suspended Amid Investigation Into Missing Cockfighting Enthusiasts

MANILA, Philippines — In a decisive move to preserve the integrity of the ongoing probe into the disappearance of cockfighting enthusiasts, twelve police officers have been placed on preventive suspension for up to 90 days. This action aims to prevent any possible interference with witnesses as authorities continue their investigation into alleged police involvement and bribery.

National Police Commission (Napolcom) Vice Chairman Rafael Vicente Calinisan emphasized that the suspension is a procedural measure rather than a punishment, stating, "This is a tool by the NAPOLCOM to ensure the safety of witnesses and the integrity of the investigation." The announcement was made during a press conference on Monday, August 4.

The officers suspended include Police Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Eliab Orapa, Police Major Mark Philip Cimborio Almedilla, and Police Colonel Jacinto Rodriguez Malinao Jr., among others. While eleven of them face charges of grave misconduct, irregularities in duty performance, and conduct unbecoming of a police officer, Colonel Malinao Jr. has been charged additionally with grave neglect of duty.

These administrative actions stem from an affidavit filed by a key witness identified as Julie Patidongan, alias "Totoy." Patidongan accuses the officers of involvement in illegal activities and collusion with alleged mastermind Charlie Chu Hai Ang, also known as Atong Ang, from whom they purportedly received protection money. Ang has denied these accusations.

The suspended officers were ordered on August 1 to respond to formal charges within seven working days, with a pre-hearing conference scheduled for August 14. The suspension took effect immediately, with the officers not receiving their salaries during this period.

The investigation into the "missing sabungeros" case has gained momentum since June when Patidongan claimed the victims—at least 34 cockfighting enthusiasts missing across Metro Manila and Luzon since 2021—were allegedly killed and buried in Taal Lake. These claims prompted the Department of Justice to conduct underwater searches and expand inquiries into potential police complicity.

The complex case has also drawn public attention due to additional allegations linking high-profile individuals, though some have denied any involvement. Authorities continue to pursue the case with the aim of delivering justice for the missing individuals and their families.