Manila: More than 60 individuals implicated in the missing 'sabungeros' (cockfight enthusiasts) case have been placed on an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO), Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced. The ILBO is issued by the Justice Department, instructing immigration officers to closely monitor the travel of the individuals involved.

According to Philippines News Agency, the ILBO covers all those named by whistleblower Julie Patidongan. Notably, one individual related to Atong Ang, who was earlier named as a supposed mastermind behind the sabungeros' disappearance, has already left the country. Ang has denied these allegations.

Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon indicated that the case will now proceed to a preliminary investigation following the evaluation stage. During this phase, implicated individuals will be provided with case records and asked to present their side. Subpoenas are expected to be issued by next week. Fadullon also mentioned that the prosecution might apply for a Preliminary Hold Departure Order if there is any concern about individuals absconding.

Justice Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano reported that ongoing operations in Taal Lake, where the remains of the missing men were allegedly dumped, will continue. These operations are subject to recovery rest periods for diving personnel, some of whom have developed ailments due to the lake's water conditions. Clavano noted that since July 10, search and retrieval operations have recovered 401 skeletal fragments from 17 locations. Of these, the Philippine National Police Forensics identified 355 as human bones and 46 as non-human fragments.