Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed Monday that the Department of Justice (DOJ) has made arrangements to place a key witness in the high-profile sabungero disappearance case under the Witness Protection Program (WPP).

Remulla said the witness, known only by the alias “Toto,” has already provided a statement, though he noted it is not yet clear if it has been formalized as a sworn affidavit. “May statement na siya. But I don't know if it has been subscribed or kung affidavit na siya,” he told reporters.

While withholding further details pending the full processing of information, Remulla assured the public that the DOJ is doing everything necessary to move the investigation forward. He said the agency had coordinated with Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III on the witness protection arrangement prior to the May elections.

The case involves the unresolved disappearance of several sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts), which has drawn public criticism and frustration from the victims’ families over the perceived slow pace of the investigation.

Remulla pushed back on the accusations, saying: “No such thing. Hindi kami naggi-give up. We have not given up on anything or anybody. Ganoon lang talaga—mabagal minsan ang kaso. Ito po'y proseso.”

He also disclosed that there is corroborative evidence to support the testimony of alias Toto, although he did not say whether it came from new witnesses or other sources.

Remulla reiterated that the DOJ began processing the witness and the information even before the elections. “Nakausap ko na siya bago pa dumating 'yung eleksyon, at na-process na rin namin 'yung information,” he said.

As of writing, there is still no confirmation of any formal charges filed in relation to the missing sabungeros.