Alyas “Totoy” Reveals Explosive Testimony: Ties High-Profile Figure to Missing Cockfighters Case

1. Introduction: A Shocking Turn in the Sabungero Disappearance Case

In what may be the most pivotal development in the long-standing case of the missing sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts) in the Philippines, a man identified as Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, alias “Totoy”, has come forward as a whistleblower. Claiming direct knowledge of the events surrounding the disappearance of at least 34 sabungeros, he alleges that these men were killed and their bodies dumped into Taal Lake—and more explosively, he has linked a well-known businessman and gaming figure, Charlie “Atong” Ang, to the operation.

The testimonies have reignited public interest and stirred renewed action from authorities. But with high-profile names being implicated, this case may now unfold under even greater scrutiny.

2. Who Is “Totoy”?

Totoy, a former bodyguard-turned-security supervisor involved in cockfighting arenas, claims to have firsthand knowledge of the abduction and killing of missing sabungeros. His motive for coming forward? He says his life is in danger and a ₱20 million bounty has been placed on his head. Now under government protection, Totoy is seeking safety in exchange for his sworn affidavit—a document that lays out in disturbing detail how victims were silenced and disposed of.

3. The Gruesome Allegations

In a confidential yet partially publicized affidavit, Totoy states that:

Victims were abducted after allegedly cheating or getting involved in disputes within online cockfighting syndicates.
These individuals—including minors aged 14 and 17—were reportedly tied with steel wires, placed inside vans, and later drowned in Taal Lake with sandbags to weigh down their bodies.
The killings, he claims, were carried out under the orders of a top-tier operator in the online sabong industry.

This method was allegedly used multiple times, leading Totoy to believe that over 100 individuals may have suffered the same fate—though only 34 have been officially documented.

4. The Mastermind Claim: Atong Ang

Among the most critical points in Totoy’s testimony is the direct accusation against Atong Ang, a prominent businessman known for his links to the online sabong industry and other gaming ventures.

Totoy alleges:

Ang was the main financier and decision-maker, giving green lights for “cleansing operations.”
The people working under Ang—security, drivers, and logistics teams—allegedly executed the operations.
Certain individuals within law enforcement may have also had knowledge of the events.

In media interviews, Totoy referred to Ang as “the chairman of Pitmaster”, the company involved in managing online cockfighting platforms.

5. Atong Ang Responds: Total Denial and Legal Counter

In a prompt and firm response, Atong Ang held a press conference denying any involvement in the alleged crimes. He stated:

“I have nothing to do with these events. I am a businessman, not a criminal.”

Ang has since filed legal complaints against Totoy for defamation and malicious accusations, asserting that he is being falsely implicated due to his public standing in the industry.

He has also claimed that he is willing to cooperate with any investigation, and has challenged Totoy and his lawyers to present hard evidence.

6. The Role of the DOJ and NBI

In light of Totoy’s statement, the Department of Justice (DOJ), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have pledged to:

Examine the credibility of the testimony
Conduct underwater forensics operations in Taal Lake
Review surveillance, GPS, and communications data to validate or disprove the claims

The DOJ has also offered Totoy protection under the Witness Protection Program (WPP).

7. Family Reactions: Hope Mixed with Heartbreak

The families of the missing sabungeros, many of whom have been waiting for over three years for closure, responded with mixed emotions:

Hope that justice may finally be served
Heartbreak over the brutal nature of the revelations
Skepticism over whether the powerful figures involved will be held accountable

One family member of a missing sabungero stated:

“We’ve waited for so long. If what Totoy says is true, we need the truth—and we need justice now.”

8. Public Outrage and Social Media Reaction

Following news coverage of Totoy’s statements, the public took to social media:

#JusticeForSabungeros trended on X (formerly Twitter)
Prominent figures called for transparent investigations
Netizens demanded that all parties, regardless of influence, face legal scrutiny

9. Investigative Challenges

Even with Totoy’s explosive claims, investigators face considerable hurdles:

Challenge
Explanation

Lack of physical evidence
Bodies allegedly dumped underwater, difficult to retrieve

Alleged cover-ups
Involvement of insiders may have erased records

Witness credibility
Need to cross-check Totoy’s testimony with hard data

The underwater searches in Taal Lake are especially difficult due to depth, currents, and visibility issues. However, authorities have already mobilized special teams equipped with drones and sonar mapping tools to search the suspected areas.

10. What Happens Next?

The following steps are underway:

DOJ evaluates Totoy’s testimony for official witness designation
Ang’s legal team prepares to challenge the affidavit in court
Government forensics units initiate search operations in Taal
More witnesses may be encouraged to come forward
Senate may call for a public inquiry to reopen the case officially

11. Broader Implications for Philippine Justice

This case raises major questions:

Can high-profile individuals be held accountable if evidence emerges?
Will this trigger reforms in the regulation of online gambling and cockfighting operations?
What protections will future whistleblowers receive?

Totoy’s decision to come forward is brave—but also risky. His testimony may either break open one of the country’s most chilling cases or become buried under legal complexity.

12. Conclusion: A Nation Watches Closely

The disappearance of sabungeros was one of the most disturbing unsolved cases in recent Philippine history. With Alyas Totoy now providing names, timelines, and locations, this case has moved from mystery to the brink of resolution.

Yet it remains to be seen whether the system will deliver full justice—or if silence will again prevail. For now, the nation watches, the families wait, and the truth begins to surface from the depths of Taal Lake.