BREAKING NEWS: Sacks and Handcuffs Used on Missing “Sabungeros” Finally Found — Bones and Skulls Sent for DNA Testing!
In a shocking and emotional twist in the long-running mystery surrounding the missing sabungeros (cockfight enthusiasts), authorities have uncovered critical evidence believed to be linked to their tragic disappearance. Sacks and handcuffs, suspected to have been used to restrain the victims, were recently discovered in a remote location — and with them, investigators also found human bones and skeletal remains.
The discovery has reignited public interest and grief over the 2022-2023 string of disappearances, which had remained unresolved and clouded in silence, despite years of protests, appeals, and desperate pleas from the victims’ families.
Major Breakthrough After Years of Frustration
The remains were reportedly found in a forested area in Luzon, following a tip from an anonymous source. Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), along with forensic experts, arrived at the scene to collect what has been described as “highly decomposed human remains,” along with sacks, metal restraints (posas), duct tape, and pieces of clothing—some of which match the descriptions provided by the families of the missing men.
PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco confirmed in a press briefing:
“We have recovered what we believe could be crucial evidence in the case of the missing sabungeros. Human remains were found at the scene and have been sent for immediate DNA testing. The handcuffs and other items are undergoing forensic analysis.”
The location was reportedly so isolated that it took authorities several hours of trekking and excavation to access the area, which many now believe was used as a dump site for bodies.
Grieving Families React: “We Just Want the Truth”
The emotional toll on the families of the missing sabungeros cannot be overstated. For years, they’ve demanded justice, appearing before the Senate, media, and law enforcement agencies, only to be met with silence, slow progress, or dead ends.
One relative of a missing sabungero said in an emotional interview:
“Kung totoo man na ‘yun ang mga mahal namin, at least makakapag-luksa kami nang maayos. Pero ang sakit-sakit. Hindi sila hayop para itapon lang sa sako.”
Another mother tearfully expressed:
“Gusto lang naming malaman ang totoo. Sino ang may gawa nito? Bakit walang nakakulong hanggang ngayon?”
The recovery of physical evidence — especially the bones — has provided a glimmer of hope for closure, even if it comes in the most painful form imaginable.
DNA Testing Underway
The remains were immediately turned over to the PNP Crime Laboratory and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for thorough DNA analysis and cross-referencing with the samples previously provided by the families of the missing men.
Forensic expert Dr. Alvin Ramirez stated:
“We are prioritizing these samples. Bone marrow extraction and mitochondrial DNA comparison are now in progress. We hope to release preliminary results within 3 to 4 weeks.”
If confirmed, this would mark the first physical confirmation of death among the many missing sabungeros, most of whom were last seen being taken by unidentified men in vans, as captured by various CCTV footage.
The Mystery of the Missing Sabungeros
The disappearance of over 30 sabungeros between 2021 and 2023 became a national scandal, with several cases remaining unresolved and no major convictions made to date. Most of the victims were said to be involved in online “e-sabong” betting, a multi-billion peso underground industry that was abruptly shut down by President Duterte in 2022 due to criminal connections.
Speculations ranged from debt-related murders to organized crime syndicates, and even insider involvement by corrupt law enforcement officials. Despite Senate hearings and a presidential ban on e-sabong, justice has remained elusive.
Could This Be the Turning Point?
Senator Raffy Tulfo, who has long championed the cause of the missing sabungeros’ families, immediately reacted to the breakthrough:
“Matagal na naming hinihintay ito. This should be the final wake-up call for authorities. Panahon na para magsimula ang seryosong paglilitis at pag-aresto sa mga responsable!”
Tulfo has vowed to reopen legislative inquiries and pressure law enforcement to pursue criminal charges, especially if the DNA results confirm the worst fears.
He also warned:
“Kung may mga pulis o opisyal na sangkot, dapat managot kayo. Hindi kayo makakatakas habang ako’y buhay!”
Public Fury and Demands for Justice
Social media exploded with reactions following the news:
“So heartbreaking. Those families waited for so long. Now they’re grieving all over again.”
“The government better not cover this up. We need full accountability!”
“Salamat sa Diyos at may nakitang ebidensya. Pero sana hindi na ito matulog muli sa mga mesa ng mga opisyal.”
The hashtags #JusticeForSabungeros, #NasaanNaAngHustisya, and #SabungeroMassGrave trended within hours.
Many users expressed frustration over the lack of arrests and called on the Department of Justice to prioritize prosecution based on the new findings.
Final Thoughts
The discovery of sacks, handcuffs, and bones believed to be linked to the missing sabungeros may finally crack open a case that has haunted the nation for years. For the victims’ families, this grim discovery brings both unimaginable pain and the possibility of long-awaited closure.
But this is only the beginning. The Filipino public now demands real accountability — not just more press conferences and hollow promises.
If the remains are confirmed to belong to the missing sabungeros, then the government, law enforcement, and justice system must ensure that those responsible — regardless of rank or power — are brought to justice.
The country is watching. The time for silence is over.
Justice must be served.
