Sunshine Cruz and Gretchen Barretto Dragged Into the Case of the Missing Cockfighters After Atong Ang, Gretchen’s Former Lover and Now Allegedly Linked to Sunshine, Is Implicated

“If you can pin them down—do it.” [Applause]

News has been circulating rapidly on social media and major news outlets involving two well-known personalities from the showbiz world: Sunshine Cruz and Gretchen Barretto. This comes after renewed attention to the controversial case of missing cockfighters (sabungeros), first reported four years ago.

According to reports, authorities and the public are now deepening their investigation into the possible involvement of individuals connected to those who disappeared. Among those names now being scrutinized are Sunshine and Gretchen—two actresses whose connection to the case comes as a surprise to many.

This issue was revived because of the long-standing ties of Atong Ang, a prominent businessman who has long been associated with various cockfighting operations—especially the now-banned illegal online sabong, which exploded in popularity before the government shut it down.

The investigation is gaining traction as the case of the missing sabungeros is reopened. While investigators dig into who may be involved, reports have resurfaced detailing Atong Ang’s past relationship with Gretchen and his alleged current involvement with Sunshine.

Because of this, the public and netizens can’t help but question: Do these actresses know more than they’re saying? Could they possibly be involved?

Despite the lack of solid evidence directly tying Sunshine or Gretchen to the case, their close ties with Atong Ang have sparked public speculation and intensified scrutiny.

Reports suggest that their relationship with Atong wasn’t just casual or platonic. There were real romantic ties, which could mean they were privy to information or connections that might be relevant to the investigation.

It can be recalled that the case of the missing cockfighters was first reported in 2021, when numerous men across the country vanished one after another. Many of them were said to have attended high-stakes cockfighting events, often connected to powerful figures behind both physical and online sabong operations.

Several victims were last seen in vehicles that were never traced, or in cockpits believed to be linked to prominent businessmen—with Atong Ang often mentioned as a key figure.

As families of the victims continue to search for justice, Atong’s name has consistently emerged among those allegedly responsible or knowledgeable about the disappearances. Some victims were reportedly last spotted at facilities believed to be controlled or connected to him.

Because of these testimonies, Atong was one of the first to be subjected to deeper investigation. Over time, however, media interest faded and the case was overshadowed by other national issues. But now, with new testimonies and leaked information, Atong Ang’s name is back in the spotlight.

Along with the case’s resurgence came the unexpected public entanglement of Sunshine Cruz and Gretchen Barretto—both now associated with Atong in different periods of his life.

According to both official reports and online speculation, Atong had a serious past relationship with Gretchen, and is now allegedly romantically linked to Sunshine Cruz.

Their ties to the businessman have led to increased suspicion and public curiosity about their possible knowledge or involvement in the case. While there is still no direct evidence linking either actress to the disappearances, their association with Atong has become the basis for public questioning.

Netizens have also scoured the actresses’ social media accounts. Many expressed concern, while others openly demanded statements from both women to address the speculation and clear their names.

Some commenters argued that Sunshine Cruz, being the one currently linked to Atong, should come forward and clarify her position. Others believe Gretchen, having had a long relationship with him, might have insights into his operations back when cockfighting was still active.

However, despite the heated discussion and growing public commentary, both actresses remain silent. As of now, neither has issued an official statement.

Still, many—especially the families of the missing men—hope that in due time, Sunshine and Gretchen will speak out, helping the investigation by clarifying either their involvement or lack thereof.

It’s undeniable that this is one of the most chilling and serious criminal cases to grip the Philippine public in recent years. This is no ordinary mystery—it’s a grave crime that has inspired both fear and desperation among those who seek justice.

The involvement—direct or indirect—of high-profile celebrities only intensifies the tension and public interest.

It is expected that in the coming days, more details will emerge, and possibly more names will be implicated as the investigation deepens.

Ultimately, the nation’s cry is unified: Justice for the missing sabungeros, and truth from those who may know what really happened.

The media and the public continue to closely monitor the case. And with each new revelation, the call for truth grows louder.

As of now, the investigation presses forward into the mysterious disappearances dating back to 2021. According to credible sources and insiders, authorities are now focusing on possible connections to individuals with power and influence in the cockfighting world.

One of those names remains Atong Ang—a prominent figure long associated with sabong operations nationwide.

Meanwhile, amid the mounting accusations and media noise, Atong Ang remains silent. No official statement has been released from him or his camp. He has chosen not to speak to the press or respond to the many accusations leveled against him by the public and the victims’ families.