12 cops facing charges in ‘missing sabungeros’ case - Napolcom

Metro Manila, Philippines - Twelve cops are facing charges before the National Police Commission (Napolcom) for their alleged involvement in the missing cockfight enthusiasts or “sabungeros” case.

The Napolcom said 12 police personnel were slapped with cases of grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming a police officer. One of them is also facing an additional charge of grave neglect of duty.

“This is now a Summary Dismissal Case filed with the NAPOLCOM. Hearings will then be conducted by Summary Hearing Officers, and this case will be soon elevated to the NAPOLCOM En Banc for its disposition,” the commission said in a statement on Tuesday, July 29.

During President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address, he assured the public that people involved in the crime will be held accountable regardless of their influence.

READ: Full transcript: President Bongbong Marcos' 4th SONA

Julie Patidongan, suspect-turned-witness in the case, tagged gaming businessman Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto as the masterminds in the disappearances. The two have denied the allegations.

The Department of Justice is considering Ang and Barretto as suspects.

From 2021 to 2022, at least 34 “sabungeros” went missing after allegedly cheating in the matches.

Authorities have been conducting search operations in Taal Lake in Batangas to look for remains after Patidongan said the bodies were dumped in the lake.