NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Gretchen Barretto And Atong Ang Named As Suspects In Missing Cockfighters Case, Says DOJ Chief
Photo credit: DOJ
Businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto are now being considered as suspects in the mysterious disappearance of several cockfight enthusiasts, or sabungeros, according to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.
The development comes after Julie Patidongan — one of the earlier suspects who later turned state witness — accused both Ang and Barretto of involvement in the case. Patidongan’s testimony has added a new dimension to the months-long investigation into the string of disappearances that has baffled authorities and the public alike.
At present, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is taking the lead in probing the case. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), for its part, said it will not intervene for now but assured the public it stands ready to assist the PNP at any time if requested.
The case of the missing sabungeros has drawn national attention not only because of the number of victims but also because of its connection to the high-stakes world of cockfighting — a multibillion-peso industry in the Philippines.
Secretary Remulla did not elaborate on the exact nature of the alleged involvement of Ang and Barretto, stressing that investigations are ongoing and all angles are being examined carefully. Meanwhile, public pressure continues to mount on law enforcement agencies to resolve the case and bring justice to the families of the missing men.
The PNP has yet to release further details following Patidongan’s revelations. For now, the NBI has expressed its willingness to support the investigation if and when the PNP calls for their expertise.
The families of the missing individuals, meanwhile, remain hopeful that these latest developments could finally lead to answers — and accountability — in one of the country’s most troubling crime stories.
The development comes after Julie Patidongan — one of the earlier suspects who later turned state witness — accused both Ang and Barretto of involvement in the case. Patidongan’s testimony has added a new dimension to the months-long investigation into the string of disappearances that has baffled authorities and the public alike.
At present, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is taking the lead in probing the case. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), for its part, said it will not intervene for now but assured the public it stands ready to assist the PNP at any time if requested.
The case of the missing sabungeros has drawn national attention not only because of the number of victims but also because of its connection to the high-stakes world of cockfighting — a multibillion-peso industry in the Philippines.
Secretary Remulla did not elaborate on the exact nature of the alleged involvement of Ang and Barretto, stressing that investigations are ongoing and all angles are being examined carefully. Meanwhile, public pressure continues to mount on law enforcement agencies to resolve the case and bring justice to the families of the missing men.
The PNP has yet to release further details following Patidongan’s revelations. For now, the NBI has expressed its willingness to support the investigation if and when the PNP calls for their expertise.
The families of the missing individuals, meanwhile, remain hopeful that these latest developments could finally lead to answers — and accountability — in one of the country’s most troubling crime stories.
Jul 3, 2025
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