Remulla: Sabungero case witness hidden in Cambodia by Atong Ang

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla revealed Monday that a key witness in the long-running investigation into the disappearance of cockfighting enthusiasts, or sabungeros, was hidden in Cambodia with the help of gambling tycoon Charlie “Atong” Ang.

Remulla said, "Atong Ang deliberately hid him. He had him flee and even issued a fake passport so he could leave.”

The DOJ chief was referring to Elakim Patidongan, brother of whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, alias Totoy. Remulla added that Elakim has since been brought back to the country and is now cooperating with authorities.

Elakim’s testimony is considered a significant breakthrough in the multi-agency investigation into the high-profile disappearances, which rocked the country’s now-banned e-sabong industry.

Investigators believe the Patidongan siblings hold the key to understanding what happened to the missing sabungeros from Sta. Cruz and Lipa, Batangas.

Earlier, Remulla said that Elakim witnessed the killings of at least 10 victims and called his testimony the "missing factor" that makes the government’s theory “very credible,” especially after human remains were found in Taal Lake.

While Elakim’s affidavit adds critical weight to the case, Remulla confirmed that another witness is being prepared to come forward.

Last week, the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed that two of Totoy’s siblings, including Elakim, had been arrested and are now considered key figures in the ongoing probe. Both Patidongan brothers have since submitted sworn affidavits.

The PNP confirmed that Elakim and another brother, Jose Patidongan, were arrested abroad and brought back to the Philippines on July 22.

Reports indicated that Elakim was allegedly caught using the ATM card of Melbert John Santos, who went missing in Laguna, while Jose was seen in a video escorting a handcuffed victim, Michael Bautista.

Remulla also met with PNP Chief Police General Nicolas Torre III, expressing his gratitude for agreeing to his request to relieve a service commander from the case.

The DOJ chief clarified that the officer was relieved not due to involvement in the sabungeros’ disappearance, but due to a lack of trust. “He did something that I didn’t like,” Remulla stated.

He emphasized the importance of trust in the investigation process, noting that it affects the willingness of individuals to come forward. Remulla clarified that the relieved officer is not among the 12 police personnel accused of involvement in the case.