Patidongan Brothers File Complaint Against Macapaz
In a significant development in the missing sabungeros case, the Patidongan brothers formally filed their complaint affidavits against former CIDG Chief Police Brigadier Gen. Romeo Macapaz before the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) in Quezon City. The Patidongan brothers, key witnesses in the disappearance of 34 cockfight enthusiasts between 2021 and 2022, seek accountability for Macapaz’s alleged mishandling of the investigation.
Whistleblowers Demand Justice
Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, an e-sabong whistleblower, and his brother Elakim, both currently under police custody, led the filing. At a press conference, Julie said, “We filed a formal complaint against Gen. Macapaz for what he did to my brothers.” He also called for Macapaz’s dismissal from the police force, citing serious allegations against the former CIDG chief.
Julie accused Macapaz of falsely claiming that the arrests of his brothers were made on the latter’s own initiative. Furthermore, he alleged that Macapaz confiscated their phones and deleted crucial information, potentially compromising the case.
Leadership Changes Amid Controversy
On July 28, Macapaz was reassigned from CIDG director to chief of the Police Regional Office Soccsksargen. His successor, Gen. Christopher Abrahano, assumed the CIDG leadership. Official sources clarified that Macapaz’s reassignment was not linked to the missing sabungeros investigation.
NAPOLCOM and DOJ Responses
NAPOLCOM Vice Chairperson Commissioner Ralph Calinisan stated that the commission will carefully review the complaint. “I have yet to read the complaint,” he said. “Let us see.” He assured that due process will be observed for both Macapaz and the Patidongan brothers.
Justice Undersecretary Ely Cruz expressed strong support for the witnesses, emphasizing their critical role. “We all expect that all those involved in this case, their actions are aligned with the DOJ,” he remarked, highlighting the department’s commitment to a thorough investigation.
New Developments in the Missing Sabungeros Case
Authorities recently apprehended two more Patidongan siblings, Elakim and Jose, abroad and returned them to the Philippines on July 22. Police officials suggested they might be vital in uncovering the “missing link” in the investigation.
Earlier, complaints were also lodged against 12 police officers suspected to be connected to the case. The pre-trial hearing concerning the missing sabungeros concluded recently, with NAPOLCOM confirming ongoing summary hearings for involved officers.
Commissioner Calinisan stated he is awaiting the conclusion of these hearings before making further comments.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Interest
Community members and local leaders continue to monitor the unfolding events closely, given the high-profile nature of the missing sabungeros case. The Patidongan brothers’ complaint against Macapaz adds a new layer of complexity and urgency to the inquiry.
Efforts to reach Macapaz for comment have so far been unsuccessful.
For more news and updates on missing sabungeros case, visit Filipinokami.com.
