Justice Secretary Remulla Reveals Disturbing Details in the Case of Missing Sabungeros: A ‘Corporate-Level Operation’ Uncovered

In a recent press briefing, Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla unveiled new and deeply troubling findings in the case of the missing “sabungeros”—cockfighting enthusiasts and workers who disappeared under mysterious circumstances between 2021 and 2022.

Remulla described the case as a “corporate-style operation,” shedding light on a disturbing pattern of planned disappearances that may have involved organized internal coordination rather than random incidents or individual motives. His revelation has reignited national concern and prompted stronger demands for justice and transparency.

Background: The Disappearances That Shook the Nation

Over the past two years, more than 30 individuals linked to the e-sabong (online cockfighting) industry vanished without a trace. These cases occurred across various provinces, including Laguna, Bulacan, and Manila. Families of the victims have repeatedly appealed to authorities, suspecting foul play linked to gambling disputes or internal syndicates.

Initial investigations were slow, and for months, the public saw little progress—until this latest update from the Department of Justice.

Remulla’s Revelation: A Coordinated Operation

During the briefing, Remulla avoided explicit or inflammatory language, but made clear that the disappearances were not isolated. He described the incidents as part of what appeared to be a “systematic and coordinated act”, potentially involving insiders or powerful individuals with access to logistics, manpower, and sensitive data.

“This was not just a random chain of events. The level of planning and the resources involved point to an operation that was corporate in scale,” Remulla stated.

He added that the perpetrators showed “calculated intent,” citing digital footprints, CCTV timelines, and internal communication evidence. Some of the actions appeared to have been carried out by individuals in security roles or with close access to the operational facilities of e-sabong firms.

Evidence and Legal Action Underway

Secretary Remulla confirmed that new testimonies and forensic data had come to light. Authorities are now focusing on a “key group of suspects” who may have orchestrated the disappearances under the guise of professional roles.

Forensic evidence collected from abandoned vehicles and surveillance footage are being reviewed.
Warrants of arrest may be issued soon as the DOJ finalizes its case files.
A special task force under the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) continues to assist in building the cases.

Remulla declined to name individuals pending the completion of due process but hinted that several persons of interest are linked to one or more licensed e-sabong operators.

The Human Cost: Families Still Waiting for Closure

While authorities continue to push forward with the investigation, families of the missing sabungeros remain in limbo.

One mother, whose son disappeared in 2021 after working in an e-sabong arena in Santa Cruz, said:

“We just want answers. We want to know what happened. We want peace.”

Support groups have called for better psychological support and legal aid for affected families. Lawmakers have echoed these calls, urging government institutions to provide not just updates—but concrete assistance.

Congressional Oversight and Policy Implications

Following Remulla’s revelations, several senators and congressmen have called for renewed hearings and stricter oversight of gambling-related operations, particularly online platforms that flourished during the pandemic.

Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who previously led a Senate inquiry into e-sabong, said:

“This case reminds us why we suspended e-sabong operations in the first place. There must be accountability—not only for those who committed the acts but for those who allowed this environment to exist.”

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has also been asked to assist in providing data on licensed operators and possible internal misconduct.

A Call for Responsible Public Discourse

Remulla urged the public and the media to respect the gravity of the situation and avoid speculative or sensational narratives. He emphasized the importance of letting the judicial system take its course, promising full transparency as the legal process unfolds.

What Happens Next?

The DOJ is expected to file formal complaints within the next few weeks.
The NBI continues to secure and analyze physical and digital evidence.
A dedicated support desk for families has been set up at the DOJ.

While the exact motives behind the disappearances are still being determined, this latest development marks a significant turning point. For many, it is the beginning of long-awaited movement toward truth, accountability, and justice.

Related Articles for Further Reading

“Timeline: The Disappearance of the Sabungeros and the Government’s Response”
“E-Sabong in the Philippines: Rise, Regulation, and Controversy”
“How Digital Clues Are Solving Cold Cases in the Philippines”
“Supporting Families of the Missing: Legal Rights and Resources”
“Senate Investigations and the Push to Regulate Online Gambling”