The investigation into the disappearance of the missing sabungeros has taken a darker turn, as Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed that a powerful and well-connected individual may be orchestrating the crime.
Speaking to media on Thursday, June 26, Remulla emphasized the gravity of the situation, warning that the suspect is no ordinary adversary. According to him, the person behind the crime has the capacity to bribe individuals across multiple levels of government — even those within the judiciary.
“Ang bigat ng kalaban dito kasi ang perang iyan, nakakapasok iyan even sa judiciary,” Remulla said, highlighting the extent of influence that gambling money from illegal e-sabong operations can wield.
He added that due to the sheer amount of money involved, it’s not unlikely for individuals in power — even those meant to serve and protect the public — to be compromised. “Kaya kailangan kausapin ang Chief Justice,” he noted, suggesting the need for a broader institutional response.
The DOJ secretary also backed the testimony of a witness identified as “Alyas Totoy,” who has implicated certain police officers and a female personality in the series of disappearances. Remulla confirmed that Totoy’s claims are supported by video evidence.
“Credible enough [si Totoy] and sabi ko nga, ‘di lang testimony, may video pa nga [siya] na hawak na magpapatunay,” he affirmed.
