MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is ready to provide forensic support in the ongoing investigation into the case of 34 missing sabungeros (cockfight enthusiasts), NBI Director Jaime Santiago confirmed on Monday.
In an ambush interview, Santiago volunteered the bureau’s forensic capabilities. “If our expertise is needed, we are very willing to help,” he said.
Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, one of the accused in the case, previously claimed the victims’ bodies were buried in Taal Lake. This led Philippine authorities to request technical assistance from Japan to aid in the underwater search and recovery efforts.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has also expressed readiness to assist by providing specialized equipment and scientific expertise.
Patidongan has accused businessman Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto of masterminding the disappearances, though both have strongly denied the allegations. Ang claims Patidongan attempted to extort ₱300 million from him, while Barretto also said she was similarly threatened.