CIDG has good leads on missing ‘sabungeros’

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Saturday it has good leads on the possible mastermind in the disappearance of 34 cockfight enthusiasts or “sabungeros” last year.

“The CIDG (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group) is now completing the testimonies of some witnesses that could lead to the identification of the person/ persons who ordered this,” PNP spokesman Col. Jean Fajardo said.

She added that there is a strong possibility that only one group was responsible for the abduction cases involving 34 missing sabungeros in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

The CIDG released on Friday photos and personal information on six security personnel of the Manila Arena allegedly connected in the kidnapping of six sabungeros in January 2022.

They were identified as Julie A. Patidongon alias “Dondon,” 45; Mark Carlo Zabala, 29; Roberto G. Matillano Jr., 54; Johnry R. Con sol ac ion ,33; Virgilio P. Bayog, 44; and Gleer Codilla alias Gler Cudilla. Each carries a P1 million reward.

Fajardo said Patidongon was tagged in two cases of missing sabungeros.

“We are asking the public to provide us with the information they have that could lead to the arrest of these people,” said Fajardo.

In a separate statement, the CIDG said the six Manila Arena security personnel are now facing charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention.

CIDG director BGen. Romeo Caramat said posters containing information on the six wanted individuals will be posted in all PNP units, places of convergence, social media, and the website of CIDG.