Remulla eyes meeting kin of missing sabungeros this week

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) — Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Monday said he is set to meet the families of some of the missing sabungeros on Friday following their withdrawal of cases in relation to the disappearance of their loved ones.

"Aaregluhin namin this week. Kung kaya namin areguluhin sa Biyernes. Kung makakausap ko sila, gagawin namin," Remulla said in a press briefing.

"Itutuloy natin ang pangungusap sa CIDG (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group) at pamilya sa Biyernes... Gusto magkakaharap lahat pag pinapaliwanag ng bagay bagay," he added.

[Translation: We will meet this week. If we can arrange it on Friday. If I can talk to them, we will.

We will continue the discussions with the CIDG and the family on Friday... We all want to be facing each other when things are explained.]

In August, the families of six missing cockfighting enthusiasts, known as sabungeros, withdrew their accusations, saying they had settled issues with the respondents.

Meanwhile, the families of other missing sabungeros sought updates from the DOJ regarding the cases of their loved ones. Over 30 people linked to e-sabong activities, or online betting on live cockfighting, were reported missing since April 2021.

Last week, six suspects allegedly involved in the disappearance of sabungeros were arrested in Parañaque City.

The country's top cop expressed hope that such developments will convince the families to help authorites strengthen the case.