PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered a thorough investigation into alleged “secret meetings” between relatives of missing sabungeros and dismissed police personnel linked to the controversial disappearance case.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the probe will determine whether other police officers helped arrange or facilitate the meetings, following the relief of two policemen who were earlier made the subject of complaints before the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM).
“Any action outside of what the PNP should do is not only a betrayal of our mandate but also of the trust and confidence of the people we serve. Let us always allow our moral compass to lead the way towards the integrity and professionalism of our organization,” Nartatez said.
While the PNP chief said he respects the right of parties to communicate, he stressed that police intervention in cases already pending before the courts is a serious matter that must be addressed.
The missing sabungeros case remains one of the country’s most closely watched unresolved investigations, involving several cockfighting enthusiasts who disappeared between 2021 and 2022.
NAPOLCOM earlier disclosed the alleged involvement of two police officers in arranging meetings between relatives of the missing sabungeros and dismissed policemen linked to the case.
Nartatez reminded all police personnel to act professionally and stay within the limits of their authority, especially in sensitive cases involving ongoing criminal investigations and court proceedings.
He also urged individuals with knowledge of the alleged meetings to cooperate with authorities and help establish what happened.
The PNP said its internal investigation will run alongside NAPOLCOM’s inquiry and assured the public that the probe will proceed without favoritism.
Any police officer found to have improperly intervened in the case will be held accountable under the law, the PNP said.