In a twist that has reignited a national controversy, retired NCRPO chief Jonnel Estomo has vehemently denied any involvement in the abduction and mysterious disappearance of missing sabungeros — a case that has gripped the Philippines for years. As accusations swirl and new forensic revelations come to light, Estomo isn’t backing down. Instead, he’s going on the offensive.

If you think you’ve heard the full story, think again. Here’s everything you need to know — and why not reading this might mean missing a critical piece of the puzzle.

The missing sabungeros case has long haunted Filipino families and stirred widespread concern across the nation. These cockfight enthusiasts vanished under mysterious circumstances, with little progress in investigations for years. But recent developments — including the discovery of human bone fragments in Taal Lake and fresh allegations against high-ranking officials — have brought the case roaring back into public view.

Whistleblower Julie Patidongan, known as Totoy, made an explosive claim, accusing Estomo of advising controversial businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang to have him killed. Patidongan alleged this was part of a wider plot to silence individuals who knew too much about the fate of the sabungeros. Estomo, who previously led the National Capital Region Police Office, responded forcefully. In a public statement, he categorically denied any involvement in the incident and announced his intention to file criminal charges against Patidongan for what he called malicious and baseless accusations.

“I am ready to answer any allegations at the proper forum to clear my name. I have faith in the impartial justice system and due process of the law,” Estomo said. He emphasized his respect for the families of the missing sabungeros and their demand for justice, but warned that only truth — not hearsay — should guide the investigation.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police Forensic Group has confirmed that six out of 91 bone samples retrieved from Taal Lake by technical divers are likely of human origin. This revelation has renewed hopes that the fate of the missing sabungeros might finally be uncovered. According to Lt. Col. Edmar dela Torre, officer-in-charge of the DNA laboratory division, the remaining bone samples were found to be from non-human sources.

The forensic team is now preparing to extract DNA from the recovered human bones and compare it with samples submitted by the families of the missing individuals. So far, 18 DNA reference samples have been collected from relatives. The matching process, however, could take up to 21 days due to the deterioration of the bones, which had been submerged in water for years.

In parallel to the forensic developments, the legal proceedings are gaining momentum. Rafael Vicente Calinisan, vice chairman and executive officer of the National Police Commission, clarified that 18 police officers have been named in Patidongan’s affidavit — not 12, as initially reported. Summonses have already been issued to 12 active-duty officers. These officers now have five days to respond to the complaints. If their responses are found insufficient, the commission may proceed with formal charges. Such charges could eventually lead to disciplinary actions, including preventive suspensions, depending on the motion filed by the complainant.

Calinisan highlighted that the process has officially begun and welcomed the development as a step forward in the pursuit of justice. He also mentioned that travel restrictions, such as hold departure orders, can only be issued by the courts, but administrative sanctions could follow depending on the progress of the case.

The involvement of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) further intensifies the case. NBI Director Jaime Santiago confirmed that the agency is ready to assist in probing the allegations against police officers mentioned in Patidongan’s affidavit. When asked if the NBI would also investigate Estomo, Santiago stated that the bureau would be ready to step in if necessary.

These developments raise significant questions. Are the recovered bones truly those of the missing sabungeros? Will Estomo’s legal counterattack silence further accusations or ignite a wider investigation? Most importantly, will the justice system rise to meet the challenge, ensuring that truth and accountability prevail?

This is no longer just about a missing persons case — it’s about restoring public trust in institutions, confronting deep-rooted corruption, and delivering long-overdue justice to grieving families. As high-profile figures clash and evidence continues to surface, the story of the missing sabungeros is entering a new, critical phase.

If you care about transparency, justice, and truth, now is the time to stay informed. This case could reshape the public’s perception of Philippine law enforcement for years to come. What happens next could determine whether justice finally finds its way to the surface — or sinks with the bones at the bottom of Taal Lake.