Atong Ang and Gretchen Barretto Named in Controversy Over Missing Cockfighting Enthusiasts

Mandaluyong City, Philippines — July 2025

Two prominent public figures—businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto—have been named in connection with the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of several cockfighting enthusiasts, commonly referred to as sabungeros. The allegations were brought to light by a former associate, Julie “Dondon” Patidongan (a.k.a. “Alyas Totoy”), who claims to have direct knowledge of the alleged incidents.

Whistleblower Names Ang and Barretto in Explosive Testimony

On July 2, 2025, Julie Patidongan gave an exclusive interview to GMA News, during which he accused Atong Ang of being the “mastermind” behind the series of disappearances that took place between 2021 and 2022. According to Patidongan, he once worked as head of security in Ang’s cockfighting businesses and claims he was privy to multiple illegal activities, including alleged abductions and murders.

“They were not just abducted; they were eliminated… all with permission from the top,” Patidongan claimed.

He further alleged that actress Gretchen Barretto was “frequently present” during meetings and “always accompanied” Ang, suggesting a possible connection or awareness of the operations. However, he did not provide physical evidence during the interview to support these claims.

Atong Ang and Legal Team Respond: “False, Malicious, Extortion Attempt”

A day after the accusations aired, Atong Ang arrived at the Mandaluyong City Prosecutor’s Office to file a criminal complaint against Patidongan. Accompanied by his lawyer, Atty. Lorna Kapunan, Ang filed multiple charges including:

Attempted robbery with violence
Grave threat
Grave coercion
Slander (oral defamation)

Kapunan stated that Patidongan had previously attempted to extort ₱300 million from Ang and his associates. When that failed, he allegedly went public with fabricated stories.

“This is not whistleblowing. This is extortion and character assassination,” Kapunan emphasized.
“These are serious claims with no evidence. We are now taking legal steps to protect Mr. Ang and his family.”

Barretto’s Name Dragged into the Controversy

Though not directly charged, actress Gretchen Barretto’s name has drawn attention following the allegations. As of this writing, Barretto has not released an official statement regarding Patidongan’s claims.

According to sources close to her, she intends to cooperate if summoned and denies any knowledge of wrongdoing. Her legal team is said to be reviewing the allegations for any grounds for legal action.

Background: The Missing Sabungeros Case

The controversy surrounds the disappearance of at least 34 cockfighting bettors who were last seen between 2021 and 2022. Many of the victims vanished after attending cockfighting arenas or withdrawing large sums of money after successful bets.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) and Philippine National Police (PNP) have been conducting investigations for years but have struggled with lack of witnesses and clear leads—until now.

Calls for Transparency and Due Process

Patidongan has asked for state protection, citing threats to his safety. He also urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III to take his testimony seriously and re-open stalled investigations.

Meanwhile, Ang’s team insists that justice must not be undermined by baseless accusations and warned the public against spreading unverified claims online.

“Let’s allow the court and proper authorities to decide. Trial by publicity only hurts the process,” Atty. Kapunan added.

Ongoing Legal Developments

As of now:

The case has been formally filed before the prosecutor’s office.
Both parties are preparing affidavits and evidence.
The PNP is reassessing prior case files based on new testimony.

Authorities have not yet issued formal subpoenas for Barretto, but the NBI has not ruled out the possibility depending on how the case evolves.

Conclusion: A Developing Story That Deserves Clarity, Not Chaos

The allegations linking Atong Ang and Gretchen Barretto to the missing sabungeros are serious and deserve careful scrutiny. While Patidongan’s testimony has ignited public interest, the truth can only emerge through due process and factual investigation.

In the meantime, media outlets and the public are urged to report responsibly and avoid drawing conclusions without verified evidence.

📚 For Further Reading:

Atong Ang camp denies Patidongan tale, says he tried to extort P300 million
Atong Ang files complaint vs. ‘Alias Totoy’
Philstar: Atong Ang, Gretchen Barretto linked to missing sabungeros