Alan “Brown” Bantiles Responds to Atong Ang’s Allegations, Announces Plans to File Charges Against Gaming Tycoon

Date: July 2025

Manila, Philippines – The controversy surrounding the high-profile sabungero disappearance case took another dramatic turn as Alan “Brown” Bantiles, a former associate of gaming magnate Charlie “Atong” Ang, publicly denied allegations leveled against him and revealed intentions to file legal charges against Ang.

Background of the Case

In recent months, businessman Atong Ang has faced serious accusations linking him to the abduction and disappearance of numerous sabungeros, or cockfighting enthusiasts, amid allegations of foul play in the e-sabong (online cockfighting) industry. Ang has consistently denied any involvement.

On July 3, 2025, Ang escalated the legal battle by filing criminal complaints against two key figures: Julie “Totoy” Patidongan and Alan “Brown” Bantiles. The charges include conspiracy to commit attempted robbery with intimidation, grave threats, grave coercion, slander, and falsely incriminating innocent persons. These charges are based on claims that the two attempted to extort ₱300 million from Ang in exchange for withdrawing damaging accusations.

Bantiles’s Response: Denial and Counteractions

Alan “Brown” Bantiles immediately refuted the allegations brought forward by Ang, calling the accusations “baseless and fabricated.” Bantiles stated that he had no involvement in any extortion attempts and described the narrative framing him as a scapegoat.

In a public statement, Bantiles clarified his role within the Pitmaster Group, the firm operated by Ang managing various e-sabong farms and venues. According to Bantiles, his involvement was strictly operational, and he categorically denied any participation in criminal activities or conspiracy.

The Legal Battle Ahead

The complaint filed by Ang against Bantiles and Patidongan has drawn attention to the complexities surrounding the ongoing investigation into the sabungeros disappearance. Legal experts suggest that the case now hinges on proving the credibility of both the whistleblowers and the accused.

The Mandaluyong City Prosecutor’s Office will be tasked with reviewing the charges to determine if they have sufficient basis to proceed with formal legal action. Bantiles’s outright denial adds another layer to the investigation, potentially impacting the weight given to testimonies in the main case.

Wider Implications for the E-Sabong Industry

The controversy has sent shockwaves through the e-sabong industry, raising questions about security, integrity, and accountability in online cockfighting operations. The allegations of extortion and wrongful accusations reflect the high stakes involved and the complicated dynamics between operators, managers, and participants.

What’s Next?

Prosecutorial Review: The authorities will examine the evidence to decide whether to move forward with prosecution.
Credibility Assessments: Courts will likely assess the veracity of conflicting testimonies.
Potential for Additional Charges: Depending on findings, further legal developments may involve additional parties.
Public Interest: The case remains a key point of public attention, with many awaiting clarity on the fate of missing sabungeros.

Summary

Party
Allegation
Response

Atong Ang
Accused of orchestrating disappearances and targeted with extortion attempts
Denies all allegations; filed criminal complaints against accusers

Alan “Brown” Bantiles
Alleged co-conspirator in extortion plot
Denies all accusations; plans to file charges against Ang

Julie “Totoy” Patidongan
Whistleblower accusing Ang
Under investigation; co-respondent in legal complaints

Related Articles for Further Reading

Atong sues accuser: We are not criminals – Philstar
‘Sabungeros’ case: Atong Ang files criminal raps, says ‘Totoy’ tried to extort ₱300M – Philstar
Businessman Atong Ang files charges against accusers – SunStar
Atong Ang files raps vs whistleblowers – Manila Standard