Senator Bato Dela Rosa Considers Reopening Senate Probe
Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa announced on Wednesday his willingness to reopen the Senate investigation into the missing sabungeros case if fellow lawmakers submit a formal resolution. The senator emphasized this possibility as he recalled his 2022 inquiry into the disappearance of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts.
Dela Rosa, who leads the Senate’s committee on public order and dangerous drugs, highlighted that the case remains a priority. “In our committee report, we directed the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and the National Bureau of Investigation to continue their efforts to uncover those responsible. The disappearance of 34 sabungeros wouldn’t happen without orders from influential figures,” he said.
Asked whether he would personally push to reopen the investigation amid recent developments, Dela Rosa clarified, “Unless a colleague files a resolution, I will be compelled to resume the probe.”
Police Officers Under Scrutiny Amid Missing Sabungeros Case
The Philippine National Police (PNP) revealed that 15 police officers linked to the missing sabungeros incident are currently held under restrictive custody. This revelation drew strong condemnation from Dela Rosa, who expressed his disappointment over the involvement of law enforcers in such illegal activities.
“I have said this before. It is wrong to be used by syndicates. Police officers are meant to uphold and enforce the law, not break it by following orders, likely motivated by money,” he stated firmly.
Whistleblower Points to Taal Lake
In June, a whistleblower identified as Julie Patidongan alleged that the missing sabungeros were buried in Taal Lake, Batangas. Patidongan, one of six security guards accused of abducting the missing individuals, brought new attention to the case, prompting further investigation by authorities.
Dela Rosa’s committee had already closed the formal inquiry and submitted its report to the Senate, which was adopted. However, with fresh leads and ongoing investigations by the PNP and NBI, reopening the probe remains a possibility if the Senate agrees.
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