BREAKING: Manong Chavit Finally Breaks Silence on Missing Cockfighting Bettors—What He Revealed Left Everyone Stunned and Speechless!
Manila, Philippines — After years of speculation, conspiracy theories, and silence from key personalities, Luis “Chavit” Singson, former Ilocos Sur Governor and long-time political kingpin, has finally spoken out about the infamous case of the missing “sabungeros” (cockfighting bettors)—a case that has haunted Filipino families and baffled authorities for over two years.
In a surprise exclusive interview, aired late Sunday night on a local primetime current affairs show, Chavit addressed the controversy head-on. And what he said has left the public—and even seasoned journalists—absolutely stunned.
BACKGROUND: A MYSTERY THAT GRIPPED THE NATION
The story of the 34 missing sabungeros first made headlines in 2021, when men involved in the popular but illegal online “e-sabong” (electronic cockfighting) industry began disappearing under mysterious circumstances. Many were last seen entering arenas, private farms, or being picked up by unidentified men in unmarked vehicles.
Despite CCTV footage, ongoing investigations, and emotional pleas from their families, no bodies were ever found. No one was held accountable.
The case became one of the most controversial unsolved disappearances in modern Philippine history. It not only highlighted the dark underbelly of e-sabong operations, but also raised questions about the involvement—or protection—of powerful people.
And for years, Chavit Singson, who is widely known for his ties to the cockpit industry and as a long-time figure in the world of politics and gambling, remained tight-lipped.
Until now.
CHAVIT: “I KEPT QUIET OUT OF RESPECT—BUT NOW IT’S TIME”
In his televised interview, Singson appeared calm but firm. Dressed in his signature jacket and speaking in both English and Filipino, he began by acknowledging his connection to the sabong industry:
“Yes, I was involved in traditional sabong. It’s part of our culture. But e-sabong? That’s a different monster.”
Chavit emphasized that he was never involved in online sabong and had openly opposed it due to its “uncontrollable” nature and lack of regulation. He claimed that many illegal operators used political protection and police connections to run the business unchecked.
Then came the bombshell:
“I know things I couldn’t say before. But now that some people are no longer in power—now that I fear no retribution—I will say it. Those men disappeared not because of debts or random violence. They were silenced because they knew too much.”
WHAT THE MISSING MEN KNEW
According to Chavit, some of the missing sabungeros were not just bettors—they were insiders. He claims several were handlers, digital administrators, and errand men working closely with high-level operators who allegedly used e-sabong platforms to:
Launder money from illegal sources
Run underground betting syndicates
Cheat results using digital manipulation
“There were billions involved. Do you really think those who control that kind of money will let witnesses walk free?”
He also claimed that some of the sabungeros attempted to report anomalies and cheating schemes to the authorities, and that they were marked for elimination shortly after.
POLICE AND POLITICS INVOLVED?
Chavit did not name names, but he strongly hinted that “certain officials” in both the PNP (Philippine National Police) and the previous administration had connections to the e-sabong underworld.
“Why were the investigations always delayed? Why were CCTV footages ignored or suddenly ‘missing’? Someone was protecting them.”
The revelations have sparked renewed calls for an independent probe into the missing sabungeros, with many netizens now demanding that the government reopen the investigation with full transparency and international observers, if necessary.
REACTION FROM FAMILIES: “WE NEVER GAVE UP”
The families of the missing men, some of whom have spent years begging for justice and answers, watched Chavit’s interview in tears.
Maria Lopez, whose son vanished in Laguna in early 2022, said:
“I always believed someone powerful knew the truth. Now that someone finally spoke up, maybe we will see justice.”
Other families have already begun gathering to file a renewed petition for Senate hearings and formally request President Bongbong Marcos to launch a special task force based on Chavit’s statements.
GOVERNMENT RESPONSE: WAITING GAME
As of press time, Malacañang has yet to release an official statement in response to Chavit’s claims. However, anonymous sources within the DOJ confirmed that they are “reviewing the footage and transcripts of the interview to assess whether a new investigation is warranted.”
Meanwhile, several senators, including Raffy Tulfo and Sen. Bato dela Rosa, have expressed interest in summoning Chavit for a formal Senate hearing, to place his revelations under oath.
“If what Chavit said is true, this is no longer just about missing men. This is a matter of national security and corruption,” Tulfo said in a brief statement.
NETIZENS REACT: STUNNED, ANGRY, AND DEMANDING JUSTICE
Online, Filipinos reacted with a mix of shock, anger, and cautious hope.
On X (formerly Twitter), hashtags like #SabungerosJusticeNow, #ChavitBombshell, and #ReopenTheCase trended within hours. Many called Chavit’s statement “long overdue,” while others praised him for finally speaking up despite the risks.
“It takes guts to break silence like that. Let’s hope it leads somewhere,” one user wrote.
Others, however, are skeptical, pointing out that Chavit still withheld names, and questioned whether this was simply a political maneuver now that certain administrations have changed.
“If he really wanted justice, he should name names. Half-truths won’t bring the men back,” one netizen argued.
SO, WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
As the dust settles from Chavit Singson’s explosive statement, the pressure is now on the government, the justice system, and the public to decide: Will this be the moment the truth finally sees light—or just another sensational headline that fades into silence?
For the families of the 34 missing sabungeros, one thing is clear:
They deserve closure. They deserve the truth. They deserve justice.
