MANILA, Philippines — The number of sabungeros or cockfight enthusiasts reported missing has increased to 26 from 20, the Manila Police District (MPD) reported yesterday.
The relatives of 18 cockfight aficionados gathered in Mendiola yesterday to appeal to President Duterte to speed up the probe.
But they were barred from continuing with the protest because they did not have a permit, the partner of one of the missing cockfight enthusiasts told The STAR.
She requested anonymity for fear of her life and for the safety of their children aged seven, nine and 12.
She said the grenade lobbed at Manila Arena may have been a diversion tactic.
“We are calling on the President to help us because lives are at stake here,” she said.
Probers said the automated teller machine card of one of the missing sabungeros was used in bank withdrawal.
Philippine National Police chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos on Sunday ordered an investigation into the disappearance of cockfighting aficionados in Manila as well as the provinces of Bulacan and Laguna.