Families Visit PNP CIDG for Missing Cockfighting Enthusiasts
More families of the missing cockfighting enthusiasts gathered at the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG) in Camp Crame, Quezon City, on Thursday to file complaints and seek answers. The search for justice for their loved ones remains their top priority.
“We are here to give our affidavits for our complaints against the people possibly involved in the disappearance of our family members,” Cha Lasco said in a press interview. Lasco is the sister of Ricardo Lasco, a master agent involved in online cockfighting (e-sabong) who vanished from his home in San Pablo City, Laguna, in August 2021.
Her complaint is separate from one previously filed by her brother’s partner, and she shared that she and other relatives recently met with a whistleblower who claims to have critical information.
Whistleblower Alleges Tragic Fate
The whistleblower, known as Julie Patidongan or Totoy, recently told media that the missing sabungeros were killed, tied to sandbags, and dumped in Taal Lake. This chilling claim has intensified calls for a thorough investigation and search operation.
On the same day at the CIDG, Elma, a relative of another missing sabungero taken from Manila Arena in January 2022, also came forward. She requested anonymity due to safety concerns and intends to file a new complaint, citing that her family member’s partner may have accepted a settlement offer.
Elma does not know who extended the settlement or the amount involved, and she last saw her relative in June 2023. Both Lasco and Elma withheld details about their complaints and the accused parties.
Government Prepares Taal Lake Search
The Department of Justice is preparing to launch a search for the missing sabungeros’ remains in Taal Lake this week. Relatives have expressed cautious hope and willingness to join the search team if invited.
“We thank the Lord God. Finally, all branches of the government are helping to recover the bodies, if they really are in Taal Lake. We are hoping some bodies will still be recovered,” Lasco said in Filipino.
Elma added, “I have no other wish to the Lord but for there to be clarity. There’s a whistleblower now that knows about their disappearance. That may be the Lord’s answer so that we’d have clarity.”
For more news and updates on missing cockfighting enthusiasts, visit Filipinokami.com.