PNP: Proof of life yet to be found for missing sabungeros

While the Philippine National Police has yet to receive any proof of life for the missing sabungeros, the PNP was still hopeful the enthusiasts were still alive, according to a Sunday "24 Oras Weekend" report.

PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo said that they had been given information on the whereabouts of the sabungeros, but the information first needed to be verified.

Fajardo added that they would continue the investigation until the missing persons were found.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said earlier that the families of the 34 missing sabungeros received calls offering cash in exchange for dropping the investigation.

CIDG director Police Brigadier General Ronald Lee, citing updates from the victims’ families, said the offer was made on the condition that they will no longer pursue the search for their missing relatives.

Lee said his office was validating the calls and numbers used by the callers but they could not be reached or contacted as of the moment.

Police first of the missing enthusiasts disappeared after participating in a cockfight in Sta. Cruz on January 13.

As of March 4, the number of missing sabungeros was 34, authorities said. — Mel Matthew Doctor/DVM, GMA News