Shadows Over the Cockpit: High-Profile Figures Now Linked to Mysterious Disappearances of ‘Sabungeros’

Introduction

The controversy surrounding the disappearance of more than 30 sabungeros—enthusiasts of the now-banned e-sabong (online cockfighting)—has once again taken a dark turn. With recent developments from the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ), what was once thought to be a closed investigation has now reopened with even more chilling allegations and surprising new names on the list of suspects.

Businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto have both been named as persons of interest in the ongoing investigation, according to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla. Their inclusion has sparked national debate, public curiosity, and renewed hope for the families of the missing.

This article aims to present a clear, evidence-based overview of the situation, while analyzing the implications of these recent developments.

Background: The Missing Sabungeros

Between 2021 and early 2022, at least 34 individuals involved in sabong mysteriously vanished from various parts of Luzon. Most were last seen entering cockfighting arenas or traveling to participate in games organized by major e-sabong operators. Despite media attention, congressional hearings, and pleas from families, the case seemed to have reached a standstill—until now.

The Duterte administration banned e-sabong in May 2022 due to the social costs and criminality surrounding it. But even after the ban, many questions remained unanswered—chief among them: where are the missing men?

Turning Point: Testimony from an Insider

In a stunning revelation, a former security chief named Julie “Dondon” or “Totoy” Patidongan emerged as a whistleblower. Once employed at cockfighting venues linked to Atong Ang, Patidongan claimed to have direct knowledge of the planning and execution of abductions targeting alleged sabungero cheaters—those who engaged in “tyope,” or game-fixing.

According to his sworn statement, these individuals were not just kidnapped—they were interrogated, tortured, and in some cases, murdered. Patidongan estimates that the true number of victims may be close to 100, far more than the 34 officially documented.

More alarmingly, he claimed that actress Gretchen Barretto was present during certain planning discussions related to these acts—an allegation she firmly denies.

DOJ: From Witness to Suspect

Following Patidongan’s testimony, the DOJ confirmed that Ang and Barretto are now considered suspects. Secretary Remulla emphasized that while the investigation is still ongoing, the whistleblower’s allegations were serious enough to warrant a reclassification of their involvement.

The DOJ is currently evaluating whether to file formal criminal charges. Patidongan may also be granted consideration as a state witness, depending on the corroboration of his claims.

The Response: Strong Denials and Counteraccusations

Atong Ang’s Defense

Atong Ang has flatly denied all allegations, branding them as part of an extortion scheme. He claims that Patidongan attempted to blackmail him for 300 million pesos in exchange for silence.

In a counter-move, Ang filed criminal complaints for extortion and announced plans to pursue charges for perjury and libel. He has declared his willingness to cooperate fully with the DOJ’s probe and maintain transparency throughout the proceedings.

Gretchen Barretto Speaks Out

Gretchen Barretto, a prominent actress and socialite, was swift in responding to the accusations. In an emotional public statement, she described herself as being “crucified” without evidence. She insists that she had no operational involvement in any e-sabong businesses and denies participating in any meetings concerning sabungeros or cheating allegations.

Furthermore, she claimed that unknown individuals approached her with offers to remove her name from the investigation—again in exchange for money—offers she says she refused.

A Crime Scene Without Bodies: The Taal Lake Theory

One of the most chilling claims made by Patidongan is that many of the abducted sabungeros were executed and dumped into Taal Lake—a volcanic lake known for its depth and dangerous geography. If true, this would explain why bodies have never been recovered, complicating the possibility of homicide charges.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has reportedly revisited the lake and surrounding areas with specialized teams in search of evidence. However, due to the nature of the terrain, these searches are challenging and slow-moving.

What Are the Possible Charges?

Legal experts suggest that if the allegations are substantiated, the suspects could face charges ranging from:

Kidnapping and serious illegal detention
Multiple counts of homicide
Obstruction of justice
Criminal conspiracy
Operating or facilitating illegal gambling

Because the crimes may span multiple jurisdictions and include high-profile figures, prosecutors are proceeding cautiously.

Political and Public Implications

This case has reignited public scrutiny of the e-sabong industry and its lingering aftershocks. Despite its ban, its legacy continues to impact Philippine society—from unresolved disappearances to financial ruin among addicted players.

Some lawmakers are calling for renewed Senate hearings. Others question whether powerful personalities can be held accountable under Philippine law, especially when they have connections in media, business, and politics.

Meanwhile, social media has exploded with speculation, hashtags, and digital sleuthing. Some users sympathize with Barretto, believing she’s being targeted due to her celebrity status. Others believe the case reveals deep-rooted corruption in the now-defunct e-sabong empire.

Families of Victims: Justice or False Hope?

For the families of the missing sabungeros, the inclusion of Ang and Barretto as suspects offers both hope and anxiety. Many have waited years without closure, clinging to the possibility that their loved ones might still return home. Others are beginning to accept the unthinkable—that they may never know where or how their relatives died.

Their demands remain consistent: a full investigation, accountability, and transparency from authorities.

The Whistleblower’s Risks and Role

Patidongan now finds himself at the center of a storm. If proven truthful, his testimony could dismantle a powerful network of illegal gambling operators. But his safety is a concern. The DOJ has reportedly placed him under protective custody, and any potential court appearances will require strong security measures.

If granted immunity, he could become one of the most pivotal state witnesses in recent Philippine legal history.

What Happens Next?

The following developments are expected in the coming weeks:

Filing of criminal complaints by DOJ prosecutors if evidence meets the threshold.
Determination of Patidongan’s credibility and decision on witness protection status.
Continuation of search operations in key sites like Taal Lake.
Public hearings or Senate inquiries into the broader e-sabong scandal.
Responses from other implicated individuals, should further names arise.

Conclusion: A Nation Watches and Waits

The sabungero disappearances remain one of the most unsettling mysteries in recent Philippine memory. Now, with powerful names in the spotlight and new allegations coming to light, the case has taken on a renewed sense of urgency and national importance.

Whether justice will be served or further buried under layers of influence, fear, and silence remains to be seen. For now, the public, the families, and the judiciary wait—and hope.

📚 Further Reading

GMA News: Atong Ang, Gretchen Barretto now suspects in sabungero abductions
Philstar: ‘Crucified’ Gretchen Barretto denies hand in kidnapping
Manila Times: DOJ confirms probe of Barretto, Ang in sabungero case
Wikipedia: 2021–2022 Luzon sabungero disappearances