Gretchen Barretto and Atong Ang Now Linked to Missing Sabungeros Case, Says Whistleblower

Manila, Philippines – July 2025

Businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto have been named by whistleblower Julie “Alyas Totoy” Patidongan as persons of interest in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of over 30 sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts) who went missing between 2021 and 2022. This revelation, made in a televised interview, has brought renewed attention to a case that has remained unsolved for years.

As of now, neither Ang nor Barretto has been formally charged, but their names have been publicly mentioned by a witness who claims insider knowledge of illegal operations related to e-sabong.

The Testimony of Alyas “Totoy”

Totoy, a former security personnel who claims to have worked directly under Atong Ang’s cockfighting business, alleged that the missing sabungeros were “eliminated” due to issues related to money, betrayal, and game-fixing. He named Ang as the alleged “mastermind” and claimed that Gretchen Barretto was regularly present at several business meetings involving Ang.

“Gretchen was always by his side. She knew what was going on,” said Totoy in an interview aired July 2, 2025.

He further appealed to Barretto to come forward and “tell the truth,” saying that her cooperation could help grieving families find justice.

Legal Action and Counterclaims

In response, Atong Ang has filed criminal complaints against Patidongan at the Mandaluyong City Prosecutor’s Office. The charges include:

Attempted robbery with violence
Grave threats
Slander
Extortion involving ₱300 million

Ang’s legal counsel, Atty. Lorna Kapunan, has categorically denied the accusations and branded Totoy’s story as “fictional” and “motivated by revenge and failed extortion.”

“This man is not a whistleblower. He is an extortionist. There is no evidence, only tall tales,” Kapunan said.

Is Gretchen Barretto a Suspect?

As of July 3, Gretchen Barretto is not facing any formal complaint or criminal charge. Her name has been mentioned by Totoy in relation to her close association with Ang, but no direct evidence has been presented publicly implicating her in any criminal act.

Barretto has not yet issued a public statement in response to Totoy’s claims. Sources close to the actress state that she is consulting with legal advisors and may issue a clarification soon.

DOJ and PNP: “All Leads Under Review”

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has acknowledged Totoy’s testimony and stated that “all persons mentioned will be evaluated.” The Philippine National Police (PNP) also confirmed that they are reopening files and re-interviewing families of the missing sabungeros to cross-check the claims.

DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said:

“We are not ruling anyone out. These are serious allegations, and they deserve proper investigation with evidence—not trial by media.”

Background: What Happened to the Sabungeros?

Between 2021 and 2022, over 30 individuals disappeared after participating in e-sabong games across Luzon. Some vanished after large winnings; others while working inside cockfighting arenas. Despite multiple investigations and Senate hearings, no conclusive result has emerged.

The administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. eventually ordered the suspension of e-sabong in 2022 due to growing concerns over corruption, crime, and mental health risks.

Public Reactions and Media Responsibility

The new allegations have reignited public interest in the case. Social media is abuzz with hashtags like #JusticeForSabungeros, #GretchenBarretto, and #AtongAng.

But legal analysts warn the public against drawing premature conclusions.

“Being named is not the same as being charged. There is a big difference between accusation and evidence,” said legal analyst Atty. Jem Garcia.

Media outlets are urged to handle coverage with sensitivity and avoid sensationalist framing that could compromise the investigation or unfairly damage reputations.

Conclusion: A Developing Story

With a major whistleblower now stepping forward, the long-stalled missing sabungeros case may finally move toward clarity—or deeper controversy. While Totoy’s testimony has brought new names into the spotlight, investigators will have the final say on whether those claims are credible and actionable.

The public—and the families of the missing—now wait for the next steps from the justice system.

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