Chavit Singson Breaks Silence: What He Knows About the Case of the Missing Sabungeros

Published: July 15, 2025

Introduction

More than two years after the chilling disappearances of over 30 individuals connected to the controversial world of “e-sabong” (online cockfighting), the public is once again gripped by new developments — this time involving one of the country’s most influential political figures, former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson.

In a recent televised interview and follow-up media statements, Singson made cryptic but attention-grabbing remarks that hinted he might know more than previously revealed about the high-profile disappearances. His comments have reopened long-standing questions: Who was behind the vanishing of the sabungeros? Where are they now? And will there ever be justice?

This in-depth report explores what Chavit Singson actually said, what it could mean for the stalled investigations, and why his words are causing such a stir — not only in law enforcement circles but across a nation still searching for answers.

1. The Background: A National Mystery

Between late 2021 and mid-2022, multiple men connected to online sabong operations went missing in various regions of the Philippines — primarily from Bulacan, Laguna, Batangas, and Metro Manila. Most were involved either as handlers, promoters, or employees of e-sabong platforms.

Despite extensive investigations by the NBI and PNP, as well as Senate hearings and media coverage, no clear resolution has emerged. Families of the missing continue to grieve, while authorities remain largely tight-lipped about the progress — or lack thereof — in the cases.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. eventually ordered the suspension of e-sabong nationwide in 2022 due to the social and criminal problems associated with the industry.

2. Chavit’s Statement: What He Actually Said

During a recent sit-down interview with local media, Chavit Singson was asked about the ongoing cases. His response, though measured, immediately drew national attention:

“Hindi ako nagtataka kung bakit hindi pa rin lumulutang ang totoo. May mga tao kasing malalakas — mga untouchables. Pero may nalalaman ako. I know things, and maybe one day, I’ll say everything.”

(“I’m not surprised that the truth hasn’t come out yet. Some people are powerful — untouchables. But I know things. And maybe one day, I’ll say everything.”)

He added that he had previously warned officials about the dangers of legalizing e-sabong, saying it “opened a dark door that’s hard to close.”

Though he stopped short of naming names, the implication that high-ranking individuals may be involved or protecting those responsible was not lost on viewers and analysts.

3. Why Chavit’s Words Matter

Chavit Singson is no ordinary political personality. With deep ties across business, entertainment, and government, he has long been considered an insider — someone who moves in powerful circles.

His decision to speak out, even cryptically, carries weight. It suggests that the case of the missing sabungeros may not be simply stalled — it may be intentionally buried.

Singson’s long association with law enforcement and his outspoken stance against illegal activities also give his words additional credibility.

4. Government Response: Cautious but Curious

Shortly after Singson’s interview aired, reporters asked DOJ and PNP officials for comment. A senior DOJ spokesperson, speaking off the record, said:

“Governor Singson’s remarks are concerning. If he truly has information, we welcome his full cooperation. We cannot act on innuendo — but if he’s willing to provide sworn testimony, it could move the investigation forward.”

Similarly, a source from the NBI said they were “open to any credible lead,” regardless of its source, and that they would be reviewing the interview for potential clues.

5. Families of the Missing React: ‘We Need More Than Hints’

For the families of the missing sabungeros, Chavit’s statements reopened emotional wounds. Many have spent years pleading for answers — attending hearings, engaging with investigators, and holding vigils.

One relative of a missing sabungero said in a radio interview:

“Kung may nalalaman siya, sana sabihin na niya. We don’t need riddles. We need closure.”

Another parent added:

“It’s not about politics. It’s about justice. These are our sons, brothers, fathers.”

Their frustration underscores the emotional toll the case has had on families — who remain in limbo between hope and despair.

6. What Could Chavit Know?

Analysts and insiders have begun speculating about what Singson may be referring to. As a former local executive and national figure with connections to both the gaming and law enforcement communities, it’s possible he has access to:

Confidential intelligence reports on organized crime operations
Witness accounts shared privately with him by informants
Names of persons of interest who have since disappeared or gone silent

Alternatively, Singson may be sending a signal — testing the waters before revealing more in a formal setting.

Either way, it appears his remarks were not accidental but calculated — potentially meant to pressure certain parties or to prepare the public for future disclosures.

7. Revisiting Past Leads: Dead Ends and Denials

Chavit Singson: Gretchen walang kinalaman sa missing sabungeros

The Senate hearings on the e-sabong issue featured dramatic testimonies, including CCTV footage of victims being abducted, untraceable communications, and alleged cover-ups.

Despite these efforts, no one has been charged or arrested for the disappearances.

Key suspects previously mentioned in whispers — including several gaming operators and fixers — have denied involvement and disappeared from public view.

If Singson’s hints are accurate, then the trail may not be cold, but deliberately obscured.

8. The Dangers of Speaking Out

Chavit’s cautious tone may reflect the real risks of naming names. In the murky intersection of politics, gambling, and organized crime, even insiders tread carefully.

Other whistleblowers in high-profile cases have faced harassment or worse. Singson’s careful phrasing — “maybe one day” — shows awareness of the danger.

Nevertheless, his stature gives him a level of protection not afforded to ordinary citizens. Should he choose to speak formally, it could shift the entire dynamic of the case.

9. The Ongoing Impact of the Case

The saga of the missing sabungeros has already led to:

The shutdown of a billion-peso e-sabong industry
Policy reviews in gambling and digital platforms
National soul-searching over the social cost of easy money and addiction

Yet, despite these effects, the victims remain missing, and their families remain unheard.

Chavit’s statement could be the missing piece — or another frustrating chapter — depending on what follows.

10. Will There Be Justice?

Whether Chavit Singson eventually testifies or reveals concrete evidence is still unknown. But his involvement has reignited interest in a case that many feared was forgotten.

Justice, in this context, is more than punishment — it’s truth, closure, and accountability. And as pressure builds, the public’s demand for answers becomes harder to ignore.

Conclusion

Chavit Singson’s decision to speak out — however cryptically — has breathed new life into the case of the missing sabungeros. Whether his words will lead to real breakthroughs or remain symbolic gestures depends on what he chooses to do next.

For the families, for investigators, and for a public longing for resolution, the hope is simple: that the truth, no matter how difficult or dangerous, will finally be revealed.

The nation continues to wait — and now, watches closely.