Witness confession: sabungeros missing for four years were already dead; strangled by tie wire

• An individual identified as “Totoy,” who is accused in the kidnapping of the missing “sabungeros,” has reportedly confessed that the victims are dead and has offered to expose the alleged mastermind

• “Totoy” claims the missing sabungeros were killed by strangling them with tie wire

• “Totoy” asserts that the number of individuals killed in connection to cockfighting could be close to 100, far exceeding the officially recognized 34 missing sabungeros

• Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla will evaluate “Totoy’s” statements, while the PNP and NBI have expressed readiness to provide witness protection as he prepares to submit a sworn affidavit

A significant breakthrough may be at hand in the perplexing and long-unresolved case of the missing “sabungeros” (cockfight enthusiasts), as one of the accused in their kidnapping has reportedly confessed to their deaths.

The individual, identified only by the alias “Totoy,” has also indicated a willingness to expose the alleged mastermind behind the disappearances that have gripped public attention for nearly four years.

“Totoy” revealed his decision to speak out, citing threats to his own life and a compelling call of conscience.

In an exclusive report by GMA News, he expressed readiness to cooperate fully with authorities and the victims’ families to achieve justice.

During a phone conversation with some relatives of the missing men, who have been absent for a protracted period, “Totoy” offered a grim assessment.

When asked if their loved ones might still be alive, he reportedly stated, “All I can do is provide justice for your families. But if you ask me, it seems highly unlikely they are still alive.”

His startling confession offers a potential turning point in a case that has left families in agonizing suspense for years.

“Totoy” claimed that the bodies of the victims, along with those of other alleged casualties including individuals identified as “drug lords,” are interred in Taal Lake.

He described the method of killing, alleging that the victims were strangled using tie wire. He further insinuated that those found cheating in cockfights were allegedly turned over to an undisclosed group.

According to “Totoy’s” assertions, the scale of these killings extends far beyond the officially recognized 34 missing sabungeros, suggesting that close to 100 individuals connected to cockfighting may have met a similar fate.

He also claimed to have witnessed photographic or video evidence of some of these killings.

The families of the missing men, who have tirelessly sought answers since the disappearances began gaining prominence around 2021, are now clinging to hope that “Totoy’s” revelations will finally bring clarity to their plight.

Many of the disappearances occurred between April 2021 and January 2022, prompting widespread concern and a government inquiry.

In light of these potentially explosive disclosures, law enforcement and judicial authorities are preparing to assess “Totoy’s” testimony.

Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Crispin Remulla indicated that the DOJ would meticulously examine his statements, cross-referencing them with information from other witnesses already known to their office.

“We will look at whether what he says aligns with what other witnesses have told our office,” Secretary Remulla stated, signaling a cautious but open approach.

He added that the case is nearing a crucial phase and that “Totoy” would receive due attention should he present himself.

Both the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have expressed readiness to provide protection to “Totoy” should he choose to officially disclose his knowledge.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago welcomed the development, assuring “Totoy” of protection: “That’s good, let’s listen to him. I assure him we will give him protection, I will take care of him, he shouldn’t be afraid. That's good, that’s welcome.”

These assurances aim to encourage “Totoy” to formalize his confession through a sworn affidavit, which he reportedly intends to submit to authorities, along with the identity of the alleged mastermind.

The unfolding events represent a critical moment in a case that has long symbolized the perils associated with illegal g4mbling activities in the country.

News, photos, or videos that arouse the interest of netizens would often go viral on social media, due to the attention netizens give them. These viral posts appeal to the emotions of netizens, and in rare cases, this could also happen to ordinary people, making them very relatable.

In other news, a 38-year-old man was arrested in Taytay, Rizal, on a warrant for the 2013 fatal shooting of his neighbor, marking a significant breakthrough in the over eleven-year-old case. Upon apprehension, the accused vehemently denied his culpability in the murder, claiming he was not present during the incident and was being falsely implicated due to a personal grudge. Police records indicate the suspect has a pattern of previous arrests, including charges for alarm and scandal, disobedience to authority, and qualified theft, for which he also claimed innocence. The arrest underscores the persistent efforts of Taytay Police in pursuing long-unresolved cases, demonstrating their commitment to bringing accountability for violent crimes even after many years.

Still in other news, Anthony B. Granada, 25, a law student from DLSU BGC, has been missing since June 8, 2025. He was last seen at 6:30 PM near Ridgewood Premier Condominium, C-5 Road, Taguig City, as per the post of Taguig City Police Station. He was wearing a white sweater, blue jogging pants with yellow stripes, and white Crocs. His family urges anyone with information to contact 0918-888-1933 and help share his details.

Source: KAMI.com.gh