Sotto wants missing 'sabungeros' probe continued before plenary debates on e-sabong firm franchise

LAPU-LAPU CITY, CEBU — The Senate investigation into the missing "sabungeros" should continue before the upper chamber holds plenary debates on one online cockfighting firm's franchise, Senate President Vicente Sotto III said on Sunday.

The lawmaker said discussions during the investigation might have a "very strong effect" on lawmakers' discussion on the franchise application which is set in May.

"If I were to be asked, hindi [pa tapos ang investigation] because we will be taking up the franchise on May 23. I'm sure they will bring it up in May," Sotto told reporters, referring to the bill granting gaming tycoon Atong Ang's Lucky Star 8 Quest Inc. franchise to operate.

(If I were to be asked, the investigation is not yet over because we will be taking up the franchise on May 23. I'm sure they will bring it up in May.)

"So it's best that we continue with the hearing...It might have a very strong effect on how we will vote on the franchise," the Senate chief added.

The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs is investigating the disappearances of some 34 cockfight enthusiasts.

Earlier, the Senate came up with a resolution calling for the suspension of the e-sabong licenses pending the resolution of the missing sabungeros' cases.

However, President Rodrigo Duterte bucked the Senate's unanimous call, citing possible loss in revenues. —Reuters