The Philippine National Police (PNP) has turned over additional files and documents to the Department of Justice (DOJ) as part of the ongoing probe into the disappearance of several sabungeros (cockfight enthusiasts).
PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the submission aims to strengthen the case.
“The submission of these files is part of our continuing effort to build a strong and credible case. These documents contain additional pieces of evidence gathered through painstaking investigation and are now with the Department of Justice for proper evaluation. While we cannot disclose details due to the sensitivity of the case, we believe they will help establish accountability and aid in the identification of those responsible,” he said.
Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and under the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, the PNP’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) submitted five flash drives and new witness affidavits to DOJ prosecutors. The complaints cover murder and kidnapping with serious illegal detention against Charlie “Atong” Ang, Gretchen Barretto, and others.
Nartatez assured families of the victims that the PNP is determined to pursue justice.
“We assure the families of the missing sabungeros that the PNP remains fully committed to pursuing this case until justice is achieved… This includes exhausting all leads, providing evidence to the DOJ, and ensuring that no angle is left unchecked,” he said.
He added that the PNP will not allow influence or power to derail the investigation.
“The PNP operates on the principle that no one is above the law. Our mandate is to enforce the law impartially, and we will not allow power or connections to interfere with the investigation or the pursuit of justice,” Nartatez stressed.
Last month, the DOJ filed a complaint for multiple murder and serious illegal detention against Ang. The case stemmed from whistleblower Julie “Dondon/Totoy” Patidongan’s testimony pointing to Ang as the alleged mastermind—an accusation Ang has denied.