SC probes ex-judge, others allegedly linked to ‘missing sabungeros’ case - Remulla

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Supreme Court is investigating a former judge and other officials in the judiciary allegedly linked to the case of the missing cockfight enthusiasts or “sabungeros,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said.

Remulla told reporters on Monday, July 7, that he had “exchanged words” with Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, who confirmed that the Supreme Court has begun its investigation on judicial workers tagged in the case.

Suspect-turned-witness Julie Patidongan, also known as Alyas Totoy, earlier claimed that a former judge allegedly “fixed” the cases of businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, who Patindongan also linked to the disappearance of the sabungeros.

READ: Atong Ang, Gretchen Barretto possible suspects in missing ‘sabungeros’ case - DOJ 

“They’re doing their job… They’re very sensitive about what should be done to improve our justice system,” Remulla said when asked for further details.

The justice secretary also said his agency may have more witnesses “within the week.”

He said the technical diving team will start its search this week for the bodies of the missing persons in Taal Lake. Patidongan claimed the remains were supposedly thrown into the lake.

When asked if there are other possible disposal sites aside from the lake, Remulla said, “Anything is possible, but we think that the clues that we got regarding the site may be accurate in many ways.”