📰 JUST IN: Gretchen Barretto Referred to as “Lady Tiger” by Alias ‘Totoy’ in Ongoing Testimony

INTRODUCTION

In the latest twist in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of multiple e-sabong-linked individuals, an unexpected figure has emerged in a new testimony—Gretchen Barretto, the former actress and long-time public figure.

According to an anonymous informant known only by the alias “Totoy”, Gretchen Barretto was referred to by the code name “Lady Tiger”, a term allegedly used within a group involved in high-level gambling operations. While this information has not yet been confirmed or validated by authorities, it has generated significant public interest and reaction online.

This article aims to separate fact from speculation, examining the source of this statement, Gretchen’s known associations, and the implications of such nicknames being mentioned in a high-profile investigation.

THE CONTEXT: WHO IS “TOTOY”?

Alias “Totoy” is reported to be a self-proclaimed insider who has cooperated with investigators regarding the operations and players behind the now-banned e-sabong industry.

In a closed-door session, which was later partially leaked to the media, Totoy reportedly named various individuals using code names such as:

“The Accountant”
“Commander A”
And notably, “Lady Tiger” — allegedly referring to Gretchen Barretto

Totoy described “Lady Tiger” as a woman with “unmatched influence” and access to upper-level meetings during the height of e-sabong’s popularity. However, no direct criminal acts were attributed to her in the initial leaks.

IMPORTANT: NO CHARGES, NO OFFICIAL TAGGING

It is essential to note that Gretchen Barretto has not been charged or officially named as a person of interest in any criminal case related to the sabungero disappearances or the e-sabong industry.

The term “Lady Tiger” may simply be a nickname used internally in informal settings. Law enforcement agencies, including the NBI, have not verified Totoy’s claims publicly, and no legal action has been taken against Gretchen as of this writing.

A legal analyst familiar with the case explained:

“Using a nickname in an anonymous testimony doesn’t prove guilt or formal involvement. It must be backed with material evidence.”

GRETCHEN BARRETTO: PROFILE AND PREVIOUS INVOLVEMENT

Gretchen Barretto has long been known in Philippine entertainment, but in recent years, she has kept a lower profile, focusing on business and personal matters. Her known romantic and professional partnership with businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang has led to public speculation, especially since Atong was one of the largest licensed e-sabong operators before the industry was shut down in 2022.

Despite the close connection, Gretchen has:

Never been implicated in any legal wrongdoing
Not been summoned to any Senate hearings or NBI proceedings
Maintained silence on her social media amid the recent resurgence of e-sabong discussions

WHO COULD BE USING THE CODE NAME?

Insiders suggest that in some underground operations, code names are assigned to protect identities during conversations and documentation. While “Lady Tiger” sounds dramatic, such labels do not confirm operational roles, let alone culpability.

One security consultant noted:

“It’s common in gray operations to give nicknames to people, sometimes even just for notoriety or appearance, not necessarily based on their roles.”

The use of “Lady Tiger” could have been a way for individuals within the group to reference Gretchen without public acknowledgment, or it could have been entirely speculative or fabricated by the informant.

PUBLIC REACTION: DIVIDED AND EMOTIONAL

The public response to the leaked “Lady Tiger” comment has been mixed. On social media, some fans have defended Gretchen, calling the label “baseless and unfair,” while others expressed concern that her name keeps reappearing in proximity to controversial figures.

Sample comments include:

“Why always drag her name just because of who she’s with?”
“There must be a reason she’s mentioned again and again.”
“Until someone produces real proof, this is all noise.”

Online content creators and vloggers have quickly picked up on the nickname, using it in thumbnails and titles — some without confirming the context or credibility.

THE RISK OF PUBLIC LABELING

Legal experts and rights advocates are warning against the public labeling of individuals based on hearsay, especially when tied to serious investigations.

“Nicknames or aliases from anonymous sources can mislead public opinion and destroy reputations. If Gretchen Barretto is not part of the official investigation, the media must exercise caution,” said Atty. Nina Galvez, a human rights lawyer.

There is also concern that trial by publicity could discourage other witnesses from coming forward out of fear of being misquoted or sensationalized.

WHAT ARE THE AUTHORITIES SAYING?

So far, the NBI has not confirmed any official link between Gretchen Barretto and the testimony of “Totoy.” In fact, they have not publicly acknowledged that such a statement exists in official records.

An internal source said off-the-record:

“We are verifying all leads and claims. But as always, names mentioned by informants are treated with caution unless independently corroborated.”

As such, no subpoena or legal invitation has been sent to Gretchen.

GRETCHEN’S RESPONSE: STILL NO STATEMENT

As of this publication, Gretchen Barretto has not made any public statement regarding the “Lady Tiger” nickname or the leaked information from the alleged Totoy testimony.

On social media, she continues to post lifestyle-related content but has avoided engaging in any political or legal controversies. Close associates have declined to comment when reached by the press.

MOVING FORWARD: CAUTION AND CONTEXT NEEDED

While the statement from Alias Totoy has captured public attention, the overall investigation remains focused on uncovering the truth behind the missing individuals involved in sabong operations.

Authorities emphasize that only verified evidence will determine the next steps — and that public figures should not be prematurely judged based on aliases or nicknames in unverified testimonies.

The case continues, and many expect more names — real or coded — to be revealed. However, the public is urged to stay focused on facts and justice, not speculation.