Remulla: Missing ‘sabungeros’ case now a matter of state interest

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla reaffirmed the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) commitment to resolving the case of the 34 missing cockfighting enthusiasts, stressing that it is being pursued “beyond private complaints” and is now a matter of state interest.

In an interview, Remulla declined to comment on extortion allegations filed by a lawyer against self-confessed witness Julie “Don-Don” Patidongan, also known as alias “Toto.”
The lawyer claimed Toto demanded money, but Remulla said: “I cannot comment on that.”

He also refused to comment on calls urging the DOJ not to rely on Toto’s statements due to the absence of a sworn affidavit. “No comment,” Remulla said.

Remulla clarified that the witness has already issued a statement and that the DOJ is currently evaluating all information related to the case.

“Sometimes you can suffer from indigestion from the information that comes out,” Remulla said. “We just have to thoroughly weigh everything. There’s a lot more police work involved.”

Authorities have identified possible locations where the remains of some of the missing individuals may have been dumped, specifically in a large freshwater lake over one square kilometer in size, Remulla revealed.

“We are doing everything so that we are up to the task of looking for the remains of people allegedly thrown in the lake,” he said. “We already have good leads on where to search and how.”

The DOJ is coordinating with local and foreign experts for lakebed mapping and equipment identification to determine the feasibility of a dredging operation.

Remulla said the Japanese Embassy has offered assistance, while the Philippine Coast Guard and Navy have also volunteered support, including technical divers.

He emphasized that the DOJ’s investigation will not be swayed by public statements aimed at discrediting Toto. “It will not affect us anymore. We’ve been looking at this case for the last three years,” he said.

Remulla acknowledged the influence of powerful individuals allegedly behind the disappearances but maintained that the DOJ has remained focused. “We never lost faith… It’s all a process. It does not happen overnight.”

He added that the agency has been working closely with Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III, who helped reinvigorate the case files over the past two months.

Asked whether the DOJ had identified any case with complete evidence, Remulla replied: “Once it reaches this stage, the state already takes an interest. This is no longer just about private complaints. This is about the people’s demand for justice.”

“Our sense of justice is the primary mover in this case — not just curiosity. We are determined to see this through,” Remulla said.