The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it is ready to provide security assistance to the families of the missing sabungeros amid allegations that some relatives are being pressured not to attend court hearings.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police will look into reports of intimidation, coercion or bribery connected to the ongoing legal proceedings.
“Police assistance does not end in case build-up and filing of charges. It expands to ensuring that no mockery of the justice system will happen in the course of the legal process,” Nartatez said.
Relatives of the missing sabungeros have alleged that individuals linked to the camp of gambling tycoon Atong Ang tried to discourage them from attending hearings.
Authorities are now verifying reports that fewer relatives have been appearing in recent proceedings, as well as claims of possible intervention by other parties.
Nartatez also confirmed that investigators are checking information about an alleged meeting involving some relatives and dismissed police officers earlier linked to the case.
The PNP said separate manhunt operations remain ongoing against Ang, who is facing charges in connection with the disappearance of the sabungeros.
Nartatez urged the families to immediately inform authorities if they experience threats, harassment or any attempt to influence their participation in the case.
“The PNP urges the relatives of missing sabungeros to immediately report if they experience any form of harassment from other parties. Prayoridad natin ang kaligtasan nila at ang pagkakamit nila ng hustisya,” he said.