NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
DOJ: 15 Police Officers Placed Under Restricted Duty Over Missing Cockfighting Enthusiasts Case
Photo credit: DOJ
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed that 15 members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) are now under restrictive custody in connection with the disappearance of several cockfighting enthusiasts. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla explained that this measure was taken to ensure that the officers could no longer cause harm while investigations continue.
According to Remulla, the 15 officers are allegedly involved in the killing of the victims, who remain missing to this day. The DOJ assured the public that their investigation will not stop until justice is served, particularly for the families of the missing men.
Meanwhile, the DOJ also addressed the status of their witness, known as alias Totoy or Julie Dondon Patidongan. Secretary Remulla shared that Patidongan is now under the protection of the PNP, with direct coordination between the DOJ and PNP Chief General Nicolas Torre III to ensure his safety.
“Yes, he’s under the protection of the PNP, and at the same time, there are already restrictions on the 15 PNP personnel involved in the missing cockfighting enthusiasts’ case,” said Remulla.
Patidongan emerged as a key witness, making allegations against businessman Charlie Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto. However, Ang’s camp strongly denied these claims, questioning the credibility and basis of the accusations.
Amid these conflicting statements, Secretary Remulla assured the public that the DOJ’s investigation would remain fair and untainted by any influence of money, with the ultimate goal of uncovering the truth and delivering justice.
This development has rekindled hope among the families of the missing cockfighting aficionados. Janice Esplana, aunt of one of the victims, expressed relief at the progress.
“We are happy with the new developments because for a long time, we barely heard anything about the case. When the witness came forward, we felt hopeful again that justice would finally be served,” Esplana said.
The DOJ reiterated its commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation, reassuring the victims’ families that they will continue working to resolve the case and bring those responsible to account.
According to Remulla, the 15 officers are allegedly involved in the killing of the victims, who remain missing to this day. The DOJ assured the public that their investigation will not stop until justice is served, particularly for the families of the missing men.
Meanwhile, the DOJ also addressed the status of their witness, known as alias Totoy or Julie Dondon Patidongan. Secretary Remulla shared that Patidongan is now under the protection of the PNP, with direct coordination between the DOJ and PNP Chief General Nicolas Torre III to ensure his safety.
“Yes, he’s under the protection of the PNP, and at the same time, there are already restrictions on the 15 PNP personnel involved in the missing cockfighting enthusiasts’ case,” said Remulla.
Patidongan emerged as a key witness, making allegations against businessman Charlie Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto. However, Ang’s camp strongly denied these claims, questioning the credibility and basis of the accusations.
Amid these conflicting statements, Secretary Remulla assured the public that the DOJ’s investigation would remain fair and untainted by any influence of money, with the ultimate goal of uncovering the truth and delivering justice.
This development has rekindled hope among the families of the missing cockfighting aficionados. Janice Esplana, aunt of one of the victims, expressed relief at the progress.
“We are happy with the new developments because for a long time, we barely heard anything about the case. When the witness came forward, we felt hopeful again that justice would finally be served,” Esplana said.
The DOJ reiterated its commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation, reassuring the victims’ families that they will continue working to resolve the case and bring those responsible to account.
Jul 4, 2025
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