Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered a rigorous investigation into alleged “secret meetings” between relatives of missing sabungeros (cockfight enthusiasts) and dismissed police officers linked to the high-profile disappearances, amid growing concerns of active-duty personnel meddling in the case.
The directive aims to unearth whether active police officers facilitated these unauthorized dialogues. The controversy came to light after two policemen were relieved from their posts following formal complaints filed before the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM).
Nartatez strongly condemned any backchannel actions by law enforcers, emphasizing that police interference in cases already undergoing court litigation severely undermines the justice system.
“Any action outside of what the PNP should do is not only a betrayal of our mandate but also of the trust and confidence of the people we serve. Let us always allow our moral compass to lead the way towards the integrity and professionalism of our organization,” Nartatez said.
The issue stems from the mysterious disappearances of dozens of cockfighting enthusiasts between 2021 and 2022, who were allegedly linked to game-fixing operations in online cockfighting, or e-sabong. The unresolved case previously triggered extensive Senate inquiries and multiple law enforcement investigations. For years, grieving families have accused authorities of a cover-up and failing to deliver justice.
The recent controversy centers on Lt. Nadame Malang of the Highway Patrol Group and Maj. Reynaldo Panebe Jr. of the PNP Custodial Center. The two faced complaints before NAPOLCOM for allegedly orchestrating a clandestine meeting between the victims’ families and 13 detained police officers tied to the abductions.
The duo allegedly attempted to broker an amicable settlement through the legal counsel of gambling tycoon Atong Ang, who has been repeatedly linked to the disappearances.
Nartatez reminded the police force to strictly adhere to the boundaries of their authority, particularly regarding sensitive cases under litigation. He also urged anyone with vital information regarding the secret meetings to step forward and cooperate with investigators.
The PNP confirmed that its internal investigation will run parallel to NAPOLCOM’s independent probe, promising an unbiased inquiry where erring officers will be held fully accountable under the law.