Malacañang is eyeing an extensive investigation into the case of the missing sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts), following revelations that some individuals allegedly involved in the disappearances may also be linked to the previous administration’s drug war campaign.

In a press briefing on Wednesday, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is committed to seeking justice for the victims.

“Kung ganyan po ang nakikita sa mga imbestigasyon, mas lalo pa po dapat palawigin 'yung pagiimbestiga dito dahil mukhang kone-konektado ang mga nagawang krimen kung ito man po ay mapapatunayan (If these findings from the investigation are accurate, then there is all the more reason to expand the probe, as the crimes may be interconnected if these findings are proven true),” Castro said in Filipino.

“Hindi po natin sinasabi na sila na po ay guilty pero mas gusto po ng Pangulo, iuutos po talaga niya na dapat mabigyan ng hustisya ang mga nabiktima (We are not presuming guilt, but the President is firm in his resolve to ensure that justice is served to the victims),” she added.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla earlier said in a television interview that there appears to be an “intersection” between the e-sabong killings and the drug war.

He said some of those involved in the latter may also be implicated in the former.

Remulla previously disclosed that possible charges, including murder, kidnapping, and violations of international humanitarian law, might be filed in connection with the disappearance of sabungeros between 2021 and 2022.

He described the series of killings as “corporate killings,” noting the existence of structured groups within the e-sabong industry, identified by codenames such as Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta Groups — classified based on income and operations.

Whistleblower Julie "Dondon" Patidongan earlier confessed that the victims were killed on the days they were taken, their bodies tied to sandbags and dumped into Taal Lake.

Patidongan also claimed that businessman Atong Ang orchestrated the operation and implicated actress Gretchen Barretto in the case.

According to Justice Secretary Remulla, both Ang and Barretto — who have denied the accusations — have been identified as suspects in the ongoing investigation.

The Palace reiterated that the administration remains committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability in the high-profile case.