MANILA, Philippines – The 34 sabungeros who have been missing for four years are dead and were buried in Taal Lake in Batangas, according to one of the suspects who now wants to testify.
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| Taal Lake in the province of Batangas. File photo |
In an exclusive report by 24 Oras, the witness—identified only as “Totoy”—expressed willingness to cooperate with authorities and help grieving families seek justice.
Totoy said threats to his family made him decide to come forward.
"Handa po ako na makipagtulungan sa inyo, para makamit ang hustisya," Totoy told some of the victims' relatives.
Totoy did not confirm the victims’ current status but admitted, “Kung ako ang tatanungin, mukhang malabo na buhay pa sila.”
When asked if he knew where they were taken, Totoy revealed the bodies were buried in Taal Lake, adding that identifying them would be difficult due to the condition of the remains.
“Paano mabubuhay ‘yan eh nakabaon na ‘yan sa Taal Lake... kung huhukayin ‘yun, mga buto-buto na,” he said, adding that other individuals were also disposed of in the same area.
According to Totoy, all the victims shared one common trait: they were accused of cheating in the game.
Totoy added he would name the person who ordered the killings in due time.
He alleged that those targeted were bound, transported in vans, and killed using a specific method. He further claimed that nearly 100 individuals were killed in connection with the case, not just the 34 sabungeros.
"What they did was tie them up with plastic restraints and load them into a van,” he said.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has taken interest in Totoy’s testimony and is evaluating its potential impact on the ongoing investigation.
Six individuals had earlier been charged with kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the case.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) welcomed the suspect’s cooperation and assured they are ready to help ensure his safety as a possible state witness.
— The Summit Express