📰 Atong Ang Named as Alleged Mastermind in Missing Sabungeros Case; Businessman Denies Claims, Files Charges

Manila, Philippines — Business tycoon Charlie “Atong” Ang has been tagged by whistleblower Julie “Alyas Totoy” Patidongan as the alleged mastermind behind the disappearance of multiple sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts), a case that has haunted the country for years. In response, Ang’s legal camp strongly denied the accusations and announced plans to file counter-charges, describing the claims as “baseless” and “extortion-driven.”

🔎 Background of the Case

Between 2021 and 2022, over 30 sabungeros were reported missing across Luzon. The cases drew national attention and sparked Senate hearings, a full-blown Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation, and eventually the shutdown of e-sabong operations in May 2022.

Despite initial arrests of low-level personnel, no high-profile individual had been officially linked—until now.

👤 Whistleblower Names Atong Ang

In a televised interview aired this week, former security officer Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, also known as Alyas Totoy, publicly accused Ang and two others—Eric Dela Rosa and Celso Salazar—of being behind a criminal scheme to abduct sabungeros suspected of “game-fixing” in high-stakes e-sabong matches.

“He (Atong Ang) gave the order,” Patidongan claimed in Filipino. “Those who cheated were made to disappear.”

He also claimed that actress Gretchen Barretto, who has long been linked to Ang, was present in some meetings. However, he did not accuse her of direct involvement.

⚖️ Ang’s Camp Fires Back: ‘Blackmail and Lies’

In a swift response, Atong Ang’s legal counsel, Atty. Lorna Kapunan, held a press briefing denouncing the accusations. According to Kapunan, Patidongan attempted to extort ₱300 million from Ang in exchange for silence.

“This is a fabricated tale, weaponized by someone seeking money,” said Kapunan. “He is attempting to destroy Mr. Ang’s reputation after a failed extortion.”

Ang’s team has already filed formal complaints for:

Attempted robbery/extortion
Grave threats
Oral defamation

These charges were submitted to the Mandaluyong City Prosecutor’s Office on July 3.

🕵️ DOJ and PNP React

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed that Patidongan’s affidavit is being reviewed under the Witness Protection Program. However, DOJ officials clarified that being named in testimony does not equate to guilt.

“We will investigate every claim,” Remulla said. “But credibility and corroborating evidence are key.”

The Philippine National Police (PNP), through its Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), has reopened several case files. Investigators are cross-referencing Patidongan’s account with CCTV footage, digital records, and earlier testimonies.

🧩 What Patidongan Claims

In his sworn affidavit, Patidongan described:

A system where sabungeros were monitored for cheating
Suspects were allegedly abducted, brought to isolated farms, and “dealt with”
Some victims were never heard from again

He did not present physical evidence in the public interview but promised to do so in court.

🗣 Public Divided, Families Still Waiting

Public opinion is sharply divided. Some see Patidongan as a key to finally unlocking the mystery behind the missing sabungeros. Others question his motives and credibility, especially given the extortion claims.

Families of the victims have expressed cautious hope but stress the need for truth and justice.

“We’ve waited years,” said one parent of a missing sabungero. “If this man is telling the truth, let the courts decide. But we hope this is not just another dead end.”

👨‍⚖️ Legal Analysis: Is the Testimony Enough?

Legal analysts have noted that while whistleblower testimony is powerful, it must be corroborated. The DOJ is expected to weigh:

The consistency of Patidongan’s statements
Potential corroborating witnesses
Any documentary or forensic evidence

Furthermore, granting state witness status would require the whistleblower to be “not the most guilty,” and to offer substantial contribution to solving the crime.

🔐 Security Concerns and Protection Requests

Following the public revelations, four other individuals named in the investigation reportedly requested government protection due to alleged threats to their safety.

The DOJ confirmed that security assessments are ongoing for all parties involved.

🧭 What Comes Next

Ang’s countersuit will be evaluated by the city prosecutor’s office.
The DOJ will continue to assess Patidongan’s statements.
CIDG will determine if there’s enough evidence to elevate the case to criminal trial.
Senate hearings on e-sabong may be revived in light of new developments.

🧾 Conclusion

The reemergence of the sabungeros case in the national spotlight marks a potential turning point in one of the Philippines’ most haunting mysteries. As accusations and counter-accusations unfold, the search for justice continues—with the hope that this time, truth will prevail and long-awaited closure will come for the victims’ families.

📚 RELATED ARTICLES FOR FURTHER READING

[DOJ reviews whistleblower’s claim in missing sabungeros case]
[Atong Ang denies mastermind tag; files complaint against accuser]
[What happened to the 34 missing sabungeros? A timeline]
[E-sabong in the Philippines: Rise, controversy, and ban]
[Legal guide: How the Witness Protection Program works]