MANILA, Philippines — Fifteen police officers linked to the disappearance of cockfight enthusiasts or sabungeros have been placed under restricted duty, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said Friday.

“There are now restrictions on 15 members of the Philippine National Police involved in the missing sabungeros case. They are now on restricted duty and are required to report to designated offices so they can no longer participate in operations,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla told reporters in a briefing.

Remulla made the statement after meeting with the families of the missing individuals earlier in the day to provide updates on the case.

He assured the families that the DOJ remains committed to delivering justice: “We will leave no stone unturned.”

The development comes as self-confessed participant and whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, also known as alias Totoy, accused a powerful syndicate of orchestrating the abductions and murders of the sabungeros.

According to Patidongan, the group—referred to as “Alpha”—allegedly includes around 20 businessmen and influential investors who gained control of the multibillion-peso cockfighting industry, particularly during the height of online sabong operations in the pandemic.

He also alleged that certain police officers conspired with the syndicate, claiming the victims were killed and their remains dumped in Taal Lake, Batangas.

The DOJ has vowed to pursue all leads, including Patidongan’s testimony, and is working with other agencies to verify the claims. (PNA)