Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced its support for a motu proprio investigation into the alleged involvement of several police officers in the disappearance of over 100 "sabungeros" (cockfighting enthusiasts).

According to Philippines News Agency, PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre II revealed that the PNP's Internal Affairs Service (IAS) is collaborating with the National Police Commission (Napolcom) to investigate claims by a suspect known as 'Alyas Totoy'. Totoy alleged that certain police officers colluded with a group responsible for the killing of the victims, whose bodies were reportedly dumped in Taal Lake in Batangas.

Gen. Torre stated during a press conference in Camp Crame that Napolcom had already issued a statement regarding the implicated PNP personnel. He emphasized the PNP's readiness to support the investigation, which is being spearheaded by Napolcom vice chair and executive officer, lawyer Rafael Vicente Calinisan. Torre affirmed that the IAS and Napolcom will work together, highlighting that IAS is part of Napolcom's disciplinary machinery.

The PNP is also assisting the Department of Justice (DOJ) in examining new developments in the case. Torre assured that the PNP would provide the DOJ with any necessary information, support, or manpower.

Calinisan has urged 'Alyas Totoy' to submit his complaint affidavit to Napolcom to expedite the investigation. In addition to the police officers, Totoy implicated a security guard from a Manila cockfighting arena and a showbiz personality as being connected to the crime's mastermind.

DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has pledged that the government will leave no stone unturned in building the case against those involved.