Duterte Accused of Involvement in Missing Sabungeros Case
RODRIGO DUTERTE – The former president has denied any connection to the case of the 34 missing cockfighting enthusiasts, or sabungeros, calling the accusation “preposterous,” or simply, ridiculous.
This was shared by his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, who recently visited him in The Hague, Netherlands, where he is currently detained. During their conversation, Duterte told his daughter that it made no sense to link him to the case, especially to the discovery of human bones in Taal Lake, where the victims’ bodies were reportedly dumped.
“Sinabihan ko siya na there is an attempt to link him to the missing sabungeros case. So, sabi niya that it’s preposterous. Yes, It’s preposterous,” Sara Duterte said. “Doon siya naka-comment na preposterous daw ‘yung attempt to link him to the missing sabungeros and the bones or the bodies in Taal Lake,” she added.
The controversy grew after a whistleblower claimed that the policemen involved in the disappearance of the sabungeros were the same officers who participated in Duterte’s controversial drug war. The National Police Commission (Napolcom) is now verifying whether this claim is true.
Vice President Duterte said their family expected such accusations, especially since her office has already faced previous attacks. She also gave an update on her father’s condition, saying that despite being 80 years old and in detention, he remains in good health and was alert and lively during their recent conversation.
Meanwhile, several senators have shown support by filing a resolution requesting that Duterte be placed under house arrest instead of remaining in detention. Vice President Duterte thanked them for their concern and said her family is praying for his release, though any legal steps will depend on their lawyers’ advice.
The former president has been detained in The Hague since March, awaiting trial for charges of crimes against humanity linked to his anti-drug campaign, which led to the deaths of thousands of suspects, including minors. As the case moves forward, his family remains hopeful for his temporary release.