The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) called on relevant government agencies to “take collective action” on the case of 34 missing “sabungeros” (cockfight enthusiasts).

In a statement, CHR Commissioner and Spokesperson Beda A. Epres cited the recent testimony of a suspect who told investigators of the killings and the burial site.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) had said that the 34 “sabungeros’ went missing since 2021.

A suspect, identified only as “Totoy,” has talked to a television network and revealed, among other things, that all 34 are already dead and vowed to name the perpetrators.

“Totoy,” a security guard of the Manila Arena who wants to turn state witness, said those killed were accused of cheating in cockfighting games, and that some of the victims were buried in Taal Lake in Batangas.

Epres said that the revelation of “Totoy” is a potential breakthrough in the case. He called for urgent and coordinated action from authorities in order to finally uncover the truth and bring justice to the victims and their families.

The CHR’s Region IV-A conducted a motu proprio (on one’s own initiative) investigation on the missing “sabungeros” case in 2022. It gathered testimonies and other pertinent evidence from the families of the missing “sabungeros.” But, it said, no information had surfaced that could directly point to the victims’ whereabouts or identities of the perpetrators.

Given the recent revelation of Totoy, Epres said it could mark the beginning of a more thorough and coordinated investigation that would finally uncover the truth.

Epres said the CHR has already taken action and held a dialogue with the families of the missing “sabungeros” last June 24 at the CHR Central Office in Quezon City.

Epres, together with other officials and personnel of the CHR, discussed with the families how the commission can continue supporting their search for truth and justice.