The Cockfighting Crisis: When Loyalty Turns into Betrayal
In a nation where cockfighting, or sabong, is more than a sport—it is culture, tradition, and livelihood—a storm has erupted. What began as whispers of cheating in underground arenas and livestream matches has now exploded into a nationwide scandal. Dozens of sabungeros have mysteriously vanished. Security insiders have come forward. And now, powerful figures like gambling operator Charlie “Atong” Ang and former actress Gretchen Barretto are being dragged into the fray.
The allegation? That sabungero cheating triggered a wave of violent retaliation—abductions, threats, and cover-ups—possibly orchestrated by top names in the billion-peso e-sabong industry. Both Ang and Barretto strongly deny the charges. Yet as investigations deepen and whistleblowers speak up, questions linger: What really happened to the missing sabungeros? And is this case about justice—or power?
The Rise of E-Sabong—and the Shadow It Cast
E-sabong, or online cockfighting, emerged as a solution during the pandemic. While traditional arenas closed, e-sabong exploded, generating hundreds of millions of pesos each month in betting revenue. Regulated by the government yet often operating in legal gray areas, e-sabong created immense wealth—especially for private operators like Lucky 8 Star Quest, allegedly linked to Atong Ang.
With money flowing in and stakes climbing, the temptation to cheat also rose. Suspicions of match-fixing and betting fraud began to emerge in late 2021. Some players were accused of manipulating results by drugging roosters, signaling handlers, or colluding with referees.
For industry insiders, including investors, these actions were seen not just as dishonesty—but as sabotage.
The Missing Sabungeros: From Suspicion to Silence
The scandal took a darker turn when reports surfaced of sabungeros going missing after being accused of cheating. From late 2021 through 2022, more than thirty men disappeared. Their last known location? Cockpits or e-sabong facilities.
Families filed reports. Mothers begged for answers. Some even held vigils outside government offices. Despite initial media attention, the cases stalled. With little forensic evidence and few witnesses willing to testify, the trail went cold—until a shocking whistleblower testimony reopened everything.
The Whistleblower Speaks: Inside the Alleged Operations
In mid-2025, Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, a former security chief for one of the e-sabong operators, came forward with explosive claims. He alleged that cheating sabungeros were targeted in a deliberate operation, involving surveillance, arrest, and in some cases, extrajudicial punishment. He claimed the operation was ordered by top figures in the business—including Atong Ang.
More controversially, Patidongan also named Gretchen Barretto, a longtime close associate of Ang and investor in several of his businesses. According to his sworn statements, Barretto allegedly joined meetings where the punishment of cheaters was discussed—and approved.
Patidongan’s claims sent shockwaves through the media and prompted the Department of Justice to formally open a criminal case. He further stated that he was offered a ₱300 million bribe to stay silent, which he refused.
Atong Ang Responds: “Lies and Extortion”
Charlie “Atong” Ang has consistently denied all allegations. In a televised press conference, he labeled Patidongan a “disgruntled former employee” and accused him of blackmail. Ang claimed he was the target of a coordinated smear campaign, and said that Patidongan’s statements were fabricated and unsupported by real evidence.
He also filed criminal and civil charges against the whistleblower for extortion, libel, and defamation, asserting that the whistleblower tried to extort hundreds of millions from him in exchange for withdrawing his statements.
Despite Ang’s strong defense, the Department of Justice included him as an official suspect. Investigators are currently evaluating surveillance footage, financial records, and testimonies from both former employees and sabungero families.
Gretchen Barretto Breaks Her Silence
Known for her controversial film career and later involvement in business, Gretchen Barretto found herself in the spotlight once again—but this time, not for entertainment. Through her legal counsel, Barretto denied any participation in the alleged operation.
She emphasized that she was merely a passive investor with no operational role in the e-sabong business. Her lawyer stressed that Barretto never attended meetings concerning sabungeros or enforcement strategies and that she had no influence over day-to-day decisions.
In a written statement, Barretto said she was “devastated and insulted” by the accusations and called them “a complete fiction, weaponized by someone seeking money and attention.”
She has also initiated legal action against her accusers for defamation and malicious intent.
The DOJ’s Move: From Allegation to Investigation
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed that both Ang and Barretto were officially listed as suspects following Patidongan’s testimony. The DOJ emphasized that their inclusion does not imply guilt—but does require investigation.
As of July 2025, forensic teams are preparing a high-tech search in Taal Lake, where several missing sabungeros are believed to have been disposed of. Underwater drones and divers may be deployed to retrieve potential evidence, including human remains or personal belongings.
Lawmakers have also called for a Senate hearing to examine both the disappearances and the growing influence of e-sabong syndicates in law enforcement.
What Happened to the Victims?
The families of the missing sabungeros have been vocal in their demand for justice. Most of the missing were fathers, sons, or brothers. Many had worked in the industry for years and had no history of violence or crime. Their sudden disappearance has left entire families emotionally and financially devastated.
Some family members say they were warned not to speak out, while others say they were approached with bribe offers to remain silent. Many continue to hope for the discovery of evidence or at least confirmation of their loved ones’ fate.
One mother said: “Even if he made mistakes, he did not deserve to vanish. He deserved a trial, not a coffin in the lake.”
Beyond the Headlines: Why This Case Matters
This case is not just about cheating or gambling. It cuts to the heart of several critical issues in the Philippines today:
The lack of regulation in online industries
E-sabong grew too fast, too rich, and too unregulated. That environment allowed power to concentrate in the hands of a few—and created space for abuse.
The blurred lines between business, politics, and crime
When wealthy businesspeople can allegedly direct security operations with impunity, it reveals gaps in law enforcement and accountability.
The role of celebrity and public trust
Public figures, especially those with business interests, must be held to the same standard as private citizens. Barretto’s inclusion in the investigation reflects a broader push for transparency and fairness.
The failure to protect the vulnerable
Many of the missing sabungeros came from rural and low-income backgrounds. Their lack of legal power, combined with institutional silence, turned them into easy targets.
What Comes Next?
The story is far from over. Prosecutors are preparing formal charges. Senate hearings are being scheduled. Investigative teams continue to work with witnesses, whistleblowers, and forensic experts.
Ang and Barretto’s legal battles are just beginning—and both sides are preparing for what may be one of the most high-profile criminal trials in Philippine history.
The nation watches. For the families, for the accused, and for the future of accountability in the Philippines, the next chapter may decide more than just guilt or innocence. It may reshape how justice is pursued when the powerful are involved.
This article is part of an ongoing investigation. All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Any updates will be reflected in future editions.
