Families file new complaints, seek search ops for missing sabungeros

Family members of 34 missing cockfight enthusiasts (sabungeros) visited the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG) office in Camp Crame on Thursday to file sworn affidavits for new complaints.

Julie 'Dondon' Patidongan, a whistleblower who met with the families on Wednesday, provided information about individuals allegedly involved in the case, including businessman Charlie 'Atong' Ang and former actress Gretchen Barretto.

Cha Lasco, sister of missing Ricardo 'Jon-jon' Lasco, expressed hope that authorities will begin searching for remains in Taal Lake this week.

Families like Cha Lasco and Elma, who requested anonymity due to safety concerns, are seeking clarity on the fate of their loved ones and urging for personal involvement in retrieval operations.

The Department of Justice is planning to start search operations in Taal Lake this week as part of inter-agency efforts to resolve the case.

Families expressed gratitude for the ongoing investigations and inter-agency cooperation, acknowledging that finding justice may be a long process but one with renewed hope.