BREAKING NEWS: Atong Ang and Gretchen Barretto Named in “Missing Sabungeros” Case, Public Outrage Grows

Manila, Philippines – A chilling report and shocking testimony from former security officer Julie “Totoy” Patidongan have reignited public interest and media coverage in the infamous “missing sabungeros” (cockfighting enthusiasts) case. In a televised interview on 24 Oras and other media appearances, Patidongan directly named businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto as individuals allegedly involved in the kidnapping and disappearance of dozens of cockfighters across Luzon.

According to Patidongan – who formerly served as head of security at a cockfighting compound owned by Ang – the businessman was the “mastermind” behind the disappearance of more than 30 sabungeros between April 2021 and early 2022. The victims, he claims, were accused of game-fixing, brought to the compound, tortured, and in some cases, killed and disposed of in Lake Taal.

Patidongan further alleged that Gretchen Barretto – widely known as Ang’s romantic partner and close business associate – “knew everything” and played a peripheral role in the group’s operations. “She was present at many of the meetings where the fate of the suspected cheaters was being decided,” Patidongan stated.

Justice Secretary Boying Remulla has confirmed that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will include both Ang and Barretto in the official list of suspects. “When names like these are mentioned under oath, we are compelled to take the matter seriously,” Remulla declared.

Meanwhile, Atong Ang has denied all accusations, claiming that Patidongan is using these statements as a form of extortion and character assassination. Ang has filed a complaint against Patidongan, alleging that the former security officer demanded a payment of ₱300 million.

The latest revelations have sparked outrage across the country, especially amid reports that many of the victims were allegedly sold out, murdered, and disposed of en masse. The families of the missing sabungeros are calling on President Marcos Jr. and investigative agencies to swiftly form a special panel to examine the evidence and pursue justice transparently.

Once dismissed by some as a routine missing persons case, the “missing sabungeros” investigation has now evolved into one of the most serious criminal cases in the country. With the DOJ officially stepping in, the public hopes that justice will finally be served and those behind the disappearances brought to light and held accountable.

🔥 BREAKING NEWS: Atong Ang Strikes Back Legally – Denies Involvement in the “34 Missing Sabungeros” Case

Manila, Philippines – July 3, 2025 – Notorious businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, once a key figure in the online cockfighting (e-sabong) industry, made a dramatic public appearance today during a press conference in Manila. He firmly denied any involvement in the mysterious disappearance of 34 cockfighters between 2021 and early 2022. In addition, Ang filed legal charges against two key accusers — Julie “Totoy” Patidongan and Alan Bantiles — citing several serious offenses.

🧩 What Happened?

In his July 3 press conference, Atong Ang claimed he was the target of a deliberate defamation and extortion campaign. He filed criminal complaints against Patidongan and Bantiles, accusing them of:

Armed robbery and threats

Grave threats

Grave coercion

Spreading false information to damage the reputation of an innocent person

Ang insisted the allegations made by the two were completely false and said he had submitted sworn affidavits and legal documentation to support his innocence. “I am not involved in any criminal activity. I call on the media and the public to await the official results of a fair investigation,” he stated.

🕵️‍♂️ Background: The Disappearance That Shook a Nation

The controversy stems from numerous reports of at least 34 cockfighters who mysteriously vanished between April 2021 and January 2022. According to accusers, the victims were allegedly kidnapped, tortured, and in many cases, killed — with suspicions pointing toward Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto, his known partner in life and business.

These accusations were made public in June 2025 by Julie Patidongan, a former security officer at one of Ang’s cockfighting compounds. Patidongan claimed to have witnessed the brutal operations firsthand, which he described as a “silent purge” against suspected cheaters in e-sabong matches.

⚖️ Response from Government Agencies

The case quickly became a national issue, drawing public outrage and prompting the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) to launch a high-level investigation. Justice Secretary Boying Remulla confirmed that both Ang and Barretto would be thoroughly investigated, stating, “All citizens must be equal before the law.”

Back in 2022, the government suspended all e-sabong activities across the country due to mounting concerns over organized crime and the growing scandal surrounding the disappearances.

📌 Key Facts at a Glance

Main Points
Details

Timeline
Disappearances: April 2021 – Jan 2022. Public accusations: June 2025. Press conference: July 3, 2025

Atong Ang’s statement
Denied allegations, claimed extortion attempt, submitted sworn evidence

Accusers
Julie “Totoy” Patidongan & Alan Bantiles – former security staff and witnesses

Public reaction
Outrage across the country. President Marcos ordered a full investigation

🧨 Conclusion

The “34 missing sabungeros” case has escalated far beyond a typical missing persons investigation — it now symbolizes the dark underside of the e-sabong industry and unchecked power. With Atong Ang now taking legal action, the public remains divided: is this a move to defend his name or a calculated counterattack? Justice can only be served if the full truth is brought to light.