A storm is brewing in Philippine showbiz and business circles as actress Gretchen Barretto is reportedly selling off high-value assets following a shocking fallout with her long-rumored partner, businessman Atong Ang. This development comes in the wake of mounting legal troubles linked to the missing sabungeros scandal that has rocked the nation.

According to credible reports and public statements from the Department of Justice, both Gretchen Barretto and Atong Ang have been named official suspects in the disappearance of dozens of cockfighting aficionados allegedly connected to the illegal online sabong network. The DOJ’s confirmation followed explosive testimony from whistleblower Dondon Patidongan, who accused Barretto of being involved in the operations tied to Ang’s cockfighting arenas.

What’s raising eyebrows is that shortly after being identified as a suspect, Barretto allegedly began selling off some of her luxury properties. These include residential units, vacation homes, and high-end commercial spaces previously associated with her and Atong Ang’s business empire. While Barretto’s camp has not confirmed the motive, speculation is growing that these transactions could be linked to legal strategies, asset protection, or a complete financial separation from Ang.

In a public statement, Barretto’s lawyer, Atty. Alma Mallonga, firmly denied any wrongdoing. She insisted that Gretchen was merely an investor, not a manager or operator, and had never attended any meetings related to the now-scrutinized e-sabong operations. The legal team called the accusations “speculative and without merit.”

Meanwhile, Atong Ang has gone on the offensive, filing criminal complaints against whistleblowers Dondon Patidongan and Alan Bantiles. He alleges that the two attempted to extort 300 million pesos in exchange for their silence. Despite the heat, Ang has publicly stated he is willing to cooperate fully with the authorities and that he has nothing to hide.

The developments have sent shockwaves through both political and celebrity circles, prompting further investigation from the Senate and increasing pressure on the DOJ to bring forward formal charges. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has emphasized that the law will apply to everyone equally, and that no one—regardless of power or fame—will be above accountability.

The question now is whether Gretchen’s alleged property sales signal a retreat, a legal maneuver, or something more ominous. As the investigations continue and the media digs deeper, many are left wondering: what is the real story behind this dramatic unraveling of two of the most talked-about personalities in Philippine high society?