Scandal of the “Missing Sabungeros”: A Comprehensive Look at the Kidnapping and Murder of Dozens of Cockfighting Bettors in the Philippines

Manila, Philippines – What began as a series of isolated disappearances has turned into one of the most shocking criminal scandals in the country’s recent history. More than 30 cockfighting enthusiasts, known locally as sabungeros, mysteriously vanished between April 2021 and January 2022. The case has now exploded back into the public spotlight following explosive testimony from a whistleblower and renewed scrutiny from authorities.

The Disappearances

At least 34 men, most of whom were involved in the lucrative e-sabong (online cockfighting) operations in Luzon, went missing under suspicious circumstances. According to reports, many of these victims were last seen inside cockfighting arenas operated by businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang.

Initially, the cases were treated individually, but as the disappearances piled up, families and human rights groups demanded an investigation. The Department of Justice (DOJ) launched a formal probe, but it wasn’t until 2025 that significant breakthroughs were made.

Explosive Testimony from “Totoy” Patidongan

On July 2, 2025, Julie “Totoy” Patidongan, a former security head for one of Atong Ang’s cockfighting arenas, publicly testified on national TV. Under oath, Patidongan claimed that Ang was the mastermind behind the disappearances. He alleged that the victims were accused of cheating in betting, abducted, tortured, and eventually executed. Their bodies, he claimed, were dumped in Taal Lake to destroy evidence.

Patidongan further alleged that Gretchen Barretto – actress and longtime partner of Ang – was aware of the meetings where decisions about the victims’ fate were made. “She knew everything,” he said. “She was present in many of those key discussions.”

Attempted Bribery and Death Threats

According to Patidongan, Ang tried to meet him secretly at a hotel a week before the testimony. He allegedly pleaded with Patidongan to retract his statements, even offering to “fix everything.” When Patidongan refused, Ang reportedly placed a bounty of 50 million pesos on his life. “He begged me, but when I refused, he wanted me dead,” Patidongan said.

DOJ and NAPOLCOM Step In

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed that both Ang and Barretto are now considered official suspects. “Once names are given under sworn testimony, we have no choice but to take them seriously,” said Remulla, promising swift action. The DOJ is preparing formal charges, pending a full review of the evidence.

Simultaneously, the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) announced it has compiled a list of police officers allegedly involved in the cover-up. These officers are now facing administrative investigations.

Public Outrage and Call for Justice

The revelations have triggered widespread anger. Social media has exploded with calls for justice, with families of the missing sabungeros demanding a special task force be formed to ensure full transparency and prosecution.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has also been urged to intervene directly to ensure that no powerful individuals escape accountability.

The Role of Gretchen Barretto

While Barretto has yet to issue a full statement, she told GMA News that she will respond once her legal team is ready. Her silence, however, has only fueled speculation about the depth of her involvement.

Conclusion

The case of the missing sabungeros has gone from being dismissed as “unsolvable” to becoming one of the most explosive criminal investigations in the Philippines. As authorities move forward, the public hopes that the truth will finally come to light—and that justice will be served for the victims and their grieving families.

“Below is a video of a mother of one of the missing individuals exposing the deceitful kindness of Atong Ang, which has sparked public outrage.”