Malacañang on Thursday affirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is not shielding any individual, regardless of status or influence, in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of several cockfighting enthusiasts, following new allegations from a key witness.
During a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro addressed fresh developments revealed by a witness known by his alias “Totoy,” who reportedly named several prominent individuals allegedly linked to the high-profile case.
“This falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and other law enforcement agencies,” Castro said.
“Whoever is involved, regardless of their standing in life or public recognition, will not be spared by the President or this administration. Those who must be held accountable should be properly investigated to ensure justice for the families of the missing sabungero,” she added.
When asked whether the President is open to the possibility of allowing “Totoy” to be granted state witness status, Castro said the matter would be left to the DOJ’s discretion.
“It will depend on DOJ’s evaluation of his testimony and the credibility of other possible witnesses,” she explained.
“It also hinges on their courage, the truthfulness of their statements, and their resolve not to recant. Courage and commitment to tell the truth are crucial,” she added.
Castro reaffirmed Malacañang’s support for continued and thorough investigations.
The case of the missing sabungeros, which has captured national attention since 2022, involves dozens of individuals who vanished under suspicious circumstances, many allegedly linked to illegal online cockfighting operations.
Despite multiple investigations and Senate inquiries, the perpetrators remain at large.
