DOJ seeks talks with Supreme Court over alleged influence of 'missing sabungeros' mastermind

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking a dialogue with Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo following claims that the alleged mastermind in the disappearance of over 30 missing sabungeros or cockfighters may have the power to sway the judicial process.

In an ambush interview, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla revealed that based on intelligence gathered from a suspect in their custody, known as alias “Totoy,” the mastermind allegedly boasted of having deep connections in the judicial branch.

“Tandaan niyo ambigat ng kalaban dito, ang pera niyan nakakapasok even sa judiciary and that's one thing that we might have to talk to the Chief Justice about, kasi mabigat ang pera ng e-sabong, hindi ito basta-bastang kalaban,” Remulla said.

(Translation: Remember, we’re up against a very powerful opponent. Their money can even reach the judiciary and that's one thing that we might have to talk to the Chief Justice about because e-sabong money is no small matter, this is not an ordinary enemy.)

According to Remulla, the alleged mastermind is a known personality but declined to name the individual for now, citing an ongoing investigation.

He described the mastermind as part of a broader group of about 20 people — including some government officials, police officers, and individuals based in the Visayas.

“May grupo iyan, kasama, pero meron talagang corporate set-up iyong principal na kumikilos,” Remulla said.

(Translation: They’re part of a group, but the key player operates under a real corporate set-up.)

Remulla assured that the DOJ is coordinating with the Philippine Coast Guard, and possibly with assistance from the Japanese government, in exploring the claim that some of the missing sabungeros may have been dumped in Taal Lake.