Dela Rosa open to reopening Senate probe into missing sabungeros

Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa stated on Thursday that he is willing to reopen the Senate investigation into the case of missing sabungeros if a resolution is filed in the Senate.

Dela Rosa, who heads the chamber's committee on public order and dangerous drugs, conducted an inquiry in 2022 but has since closed it with recommendations for further police investigations.

He emphasized that influential individuals might be involved in the disappearance of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts and expressed disdain over recent revelations implicating some police officers.

The Philippine National Police disclosed that 15 police officers were placed under restrictive custody due to their involvement in the case, which Dela Rosa described as repulsive.

A whistleblower named Julie Patidongan claimed in June that the missing sabungeros are buried in Taal Lake, Batangas, adding to the complexity of the ongoing investigation.

Both businessman Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto have denied accusations linking them to the disappearances, despite being considered suspects by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin 'Boying' Remulla.',