Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 17) — Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Thursday ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to probe the growing list of missing sabungeros or cockfight enthusiasts.
Over the past few weeks, authorities said more than two dozen sabungeros from different areas in Luzon, including Manila, Laguna, and Bulacan, were reportedly abducted or have gone missing.
The Philippine National Police is also investigating the cases.
Under the Justice department order issued by Guevarra, the NBI is further authorized to file appropriate charges against those found responsible for any unlawful act in connection with the disappearances.
Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, meanwhile, told reporters that he also plans to call for a Senate probe into the matter.
“Given the urgency of the issue while the Senate is on regular adjournment, I am planning to conduct an inquiry as part of my committee’s oversight function over certain government agencies,” said Bato, who chairs the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs.
Last week, the Commission on Human Rights said it has launched its own investigation.
