Alyas ‘Totoy’ Urges Gretchen Barretto to Testify in Missing Sabungeros Case

Manila, Philippines – July 2025

Julie Patidongan, more commonly known as Alyas “Totoy”, has publicly appealed to actress and socialite Gretchen Barretto to testify in connection with the case of dozens of missing sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts) in the Philippines. The appeal was made during a televised interview, where Totoy reiterated his allegations involving several high-profile figures, including businessman Atong Ang.

Background: A Renewed Investigation into a Lingering Mystery

Between 2021 and 2022, at least 34 individuals reportedly disappeared under suspicious circumstances after participating in cockfighting or e-sabong events across Luzon. Despite various government investigations, no definitive answers or convictions have emerged.

Recently, the case was reignited when Alyas Totoy—a self-confessed former insider in Ang’s security team—came forward with testimony implicating certain figures and alleging a systematic cover-up of the disappearances. Among the names he mentioned was Gretchen Barretto, whom he claimed was frequently present at high-level meetings related to cockfighting operations.

The Appeal to Gretchen Barretto

In a direct appeal aired on national television, Patidongan called on Barretto to “speak the truth” and “help the families of the victims” by cooperating with law enforcement authorities and disclosing what she allegedly knows.

“Ms. Gretchen, you were there. You saw what happened. If you have a conscience, please come forward,” Totoy said in Filipino.

He emphasized that his request was not made out of malice but in the hope that more credible voices would strengthen the case and clarify what truly happened to the missing sabungeros.

No Official Response Yet from Barretto

As of this writing, Gretchen Barretto has not issued any official statement in response to the appeal. Her legal team has likewise remained silent, and no reports have indicated that she has been formally summoned or included as a respondent in any case.

However, according to individuals close to the actress, Barretto is aware of the developments and is currently consulting with her lawyers about the appropriate next steps.

Atong Ang’s Camp: Dismisses Totoy’s Allegations

Businessman Atong Ang, through his legal counsel Atty. Lorna Kapunan, has dismissed the accusations made by Totoy as “fabricated” and “motivated by failed extortion.”

Ang has also filed multiple criminal complaints against Patidongan, including charges of:

Attempted robbery with violence and intimidation
Grave threat
Slander

Kapunan insists that there is no basis for Totoy’s claims and that any connection between Ang, Barretto, and the missing sabungeros is being twisted to fit a false narrative.

The Importance of Witness Cooperation

Legal experts note that while Patidongan’s testimony has reopened public discourse, it remains critical for other individuals—especially those named or closely associated with the alleged incidents—to either:

Confirm relevant facts under oath, or
Clarify misinformation to avoid legal misinterpretation.

Gretchen Barretto, given her proximity to Atong Ang, could be a material witness in either confirming or refuting key parts of Totoy’s story. Her silence, while legally permissible, may attract further public attention and scrutiny.

Public Sentiment and Social Media

The Filipino public has taken to social media platforms to express divided opinions. Some call on Barretto to “do the right thing” and help uncover the truth. Others argue that she is being unfairly dragged into a case with no solid proof.

Trending hashtags such as #SabungeroJustice and #SpeakUpGretchen reflect the emotional weight of the issue and the public’s desire for closure.

Ongoing Developments

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has stated that it will thoroughly review any new testimonies and evaluate their credibility. The Philippine National Police (PNP) has also confirmed that it is following up on leads provided by Totoy, including connections to former colleagues and businesses linked to the sabong operations.

The public has been urged to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information as the investigation unfolds.

Conclusion: A Sensitive but Critical Appeal

The case of the missing sabungeros remains one of the most baffling unresolved stories in recent Philippine history. Alyas Totoy’s appeal to Gretchen Barretto adds a new layer to the mystery—and potentially, to the path toward truth.

Whether Barretto chooses to testify may influence how quickly the justice system can bring clarity to the case. But until then, the public waits—and so do the families of the disappeared.

📚 Related Articles for Further Reading

Atong Ang Files Charges Against Alyas Totoy
Timeline: Disappearances of Sabungeros in the Philippines (2021–2023)
Legal Insights: When Does a Celebrity Become a Material Witness?
Gretchen Barretto and Atong Ang: Business Ties and Public Perceptions