Authorities Prepare Affidavits in Sabungeros Case
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced that authorities are finalizing affidavits against those responsible for the disappearance of the missing sabungeros. The complaint is now considered ripe for filing, signaling a major step forward in this long-standing case. Remulla declined to reveal the suspects’ identities but confirmed that charges will include murder, kidnapping with murder, and violations of international humanitarian law.
“There are just so many details that really can’t be left out, but we will try. I’ll tell our team to speed things up because we’ve been waiting for this for so long. These crimes started back in 2020, and now it’s already 2025,” Remulla told reporters at the Department of Justice on Wednesday.
New Forensic Finds Support Sabungeros Disappearance Claims
Search operations in Taal Lake have uncovered new skeletal remains, notably a skull with intact teeth. These remains are now under examination in a crime laboratory to extract DNA evidence. “It still has DNA because [the teeth] are intact, still attached to the skull… I’m just not sure if the lower jaw was part of it, but the upper teeth were, so there’s a chance we might get something,” Remulla stated.
The latest discovery occurred in the same Taal Lake area where technical divers continue their search. These findings bolster testimonies that dozens of missing sabungeros were disposed of in the lake.
Possible Links to Other Crimes
Remulla also suggested that the remains might not only relate to the sabungeros case but could be connected to drug war victims or other crimes involving the same death squad. This expands the scope of the investigation as authorities uncover more evidence.
New Witness Emerges to Strengthen Sabungeros Case
On Tuesday, the Department of Justice revealed a new civilian witness with direct knowledge of the disappearances. This witness reportedly possesses hard evidence backing whistleblower Julie Patidongan’s testimony. Remulla hinted that he would soon meet this new witness, who is currently under the custody of the Philippine National Police.
“It’s close. Just a little while longer (and I’ll be able to speak with the witness). Some interviews have already been conducted, and some of my staff were present during those interviews,” he said.
Regarding the witness protection program, Remulla said, “Most likely, that’s the plan too. As long as the person is qualified, it’s allowed. There’s just a lot of process to go through.”
For more news and updates on missing sabungeros, visit Filipinokami.com.
