Retired Lt. Gen. Jonnel Estomo has denied any involvement in the abduction and disappearance of cockfight enthusiasts, pledging to file criminal charges against whistleblower Julie Patidongan for allegedly maligning his name.
Estomo, former head of the NCR Police Office, slammed Patidongan’s accusations, including claims he advised businessman Atong Ang to have Patidongan killed, calling them malicious and baseless.
Meanwhile, police confirmed six of 91 bone samples recovered from Taal Lake may be human, and DNA matching with relatives of missing sabungeros is underway.
The National Police Commission has summoned 12 of the 18 police officers named by Patidongan, as the investigation formally begins.
The NBI has also expressed readiness to assist in the probe, including a possible inquiry into Estomo if necessary.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 16, 2025
