Atong Ang and Gretchen Barretto Named as Suspects in High-Profile Cockfighting Disappearances, DOJ Confirms

Introduction

More than three years after the mysterious disappearance of dozens of cockfighting enthusiasts—known locally as sabungeros—from various parts of Luzon, the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed that businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto are now officially considered suspects. This revelation marks a significant turning point in one of the country’s most haunting and unresolved criminal cases.

Background: The Missing Sabungeros Case

Between April 2021 and January 2022, at least 34 men reportedly vanished under suspicious circumstances after attending or participating in e-sabong events—online cockfighting tournaments that had exploded in popularity during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Despite early media attention and Senate hearings, the cases went cold, with little evidence and no clear suspects until recently.

In 2025, a breakthrough came in the form of a whistleblower, who had been working closely with Atong Ang’s cockfighting operations. He provided firsthand testimony to authorities, offering disturbing new claims that reopened the investigation.

DOJ Statement and Confirmation

Philippine Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla announced during a press conference that Atong Ang and Gretchen Barretto had been placed under investigation following the detailed statements given by a key witness—identified as Julie Patidongan, also known as “Totoy.”

Remulla emphasized that the decision to name them as suspects was based on corroborated testimony and ongoing evidence review. He clarified that while the suspects had not yet been formally charged, they were under close scrutiny by a special panel of prosecutors.

The Whistleblower’s Allegations

Julie Patidongan, a former head of security for Ang’s cockfighting farms, came forward with a chilling account. He alleged that:

Sabungeros suspected of cheating were abducted, tortured, and murdered.
Several of the victims were reportedly strangled and buried near or in Taal Lake.
Meetings were held where these punitive actions were discussed.
Gretchen Barretto was allegedly present at one such meeting and “raised her hand in agreement” when executions were proposed.

He also claimed that some of the sabungeros’ family members may have also been targeted or harmed. The allegations painted a horrifying picture of vigilante justice and internal paranoia within the e-sabong circle.

Responses from Atong Ang and Gretchen Barretto

In separate statements, both Atong Ang and Gretchen Barretto vehemently denied the accusations.

Ang described the allegations as part of an extortion attempt by Patidongan, claiming the whistleblower had demanded ₱300 million in exchange for silence. Ang filed a counter-affidavit and maintained his innocence, stating that his conscience is clear and that he welcomes any legal inquiry.

Gretchen Barretto, for her part, issued a public denial, calling the story “a complete fabrication.” She insisted she had never attended any meeting involving such topics and dismissed the claims as “pure invention.”

Legal Process and Investigation Updates

According to the DOJ, a panel of prosecutors has been convened to assess whether there is enough evidence to file formal charges against the suspects. Investigators are now working with other government agencies—including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Navy, and the Coast Guard—to begin search and recovery operations in Taal Lake, following the whistleblower’s specific claims.

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have also revived their task force operations to track possible remains, digital footprints, and additional witnesses who may validate the story.

Public and Political Reactions

The naming of high-profile personalities like Atong Ang and Gretchen Barretto has shocked the public and reignited interest in the missing sabungeros case. Netizens and watchdog groups called for transparency, fair investigation, and protection for whistleblowers.

Several senators and human rights advocates have urged the DOJ to maintain impartiality, especially given the influence and connections of the individuals involved.

While some believe this is a step toward justice, others remain cautious, warning that public attention must be sustained so that the case does not once again fade into silence.

Timeline of Events

April 2021 – January 2022
Disappearance of at least 34 sabungeros in Luzon. Cases initially treated as isolated.

February–March 2022
Senate hearings launched. No suspects named. No bodies recovered.

2023–2024
Case goes cold. E-sabong industry comes under scrutiny but continues operations.

Early 2025
Julie Patidongan comes forward with new testimony implicating Ang and Barretto.

July 2025
DOJ publicly names Ang and Barretto as suspects. Search operations begin near Taal Lake.

Broader Implications for the E-Sabong Industry

This development has revived debate over the regulation—or complete abolition—of the e-sabong industry. While the practice has generated billions in revenue, it has also been linked to addiction, family breakdowns, and now, potentially, organized killings.

Lawmakers are once again discussing bills to ban or heavily regulate online cockfighting operations. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) are under pressure to account for their past approvals.

What Comes Next?

As of now, the case is entering a critical stage. Prosecutors are expected to decide within the next few weeks whether formal charges will be filed. If so, Ang and Barretto could face serious criminal charges such as kidnapping, murder, and obstruction of justice.

Meanwhile, search operations are expected to intensify. Forensics teams, divers, and canine units may be deployed in and around Taal Lake.

Conclusion

The shocking involvement of powerful figures in the missing sabungeros case is a reminder that justice can be delayed—but not always denied. As the public watches closely, the next few weeks will determine whether this case leads to closure or becomes another story buried by time and power.

What is clear, however, is this: the families of the missing deserve answers—and the country deserves accountability.

Related Articles

Timeline: The Disappearance of the 34 Sabungeros
Inside the E-Sabong Industry: Profits, Politics, and Power
Justice for the Missing: Legal Challenges in High-Profile Philippine Cases
How Whistleblowers Can Change Criminal Investigations in the Philippines
Taal Lake Mystery: Can Forensics Solve the Sabungero Case?