General Allegedly Seizes the Cellphones of Totoy’s Brothers: Whistleblower Julie “Totoy” Patidongan Expresses Outrage at Apparent Suppression

I. Introduction

In the ongoing high‑stakes investigation into the disappearance of dozens of cockfighting workers known as sabungeros, whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan—widely known as Totoy—has made alarming new allegations. He claims a senior police general confiscated all twelve cellphones, his passport, and personal items belonging to his brothers, Elakim and Jose, blocking access to key evidence. Totoy expressed deep frustration, stating he is “extremely angry” about what he perceives as efforts to silence his family members during a critical phase of the probe.

II. Whistleblower Claims: Evidence Taken by a Senior Police Officer

During a press briefing that followed the filing of a sworn affidavit, Totoy revealed that his brothers, who also possess critical information about the case, had their devices taken by a high-ranking police official. He specifically identified the seizing officer as a high‑ranking colonel or general closely tied to the ongoing investigation.

According to Totoy, the confiscation included:

Twelve mobile phones belonging to his brothers
A cap and a passport
He intends to name the officer formally once the complaint is filed. Totoy described the seizure as a calculated move to hamper access to digital records—which may contain photographic or video evidence relevant to the case.

III. Context: Why the Brothers and Their Devices Matter

The Patidongan brothers have been identified as instrumental witnesses. Both worked within facilities controlled by businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and reportedly witnessed events tied to the alleged abductions and killings.

One brother, Elakim, is among the few who has provided direct testimony indicating he witnessed killing operations. He was reportedly captured on CCTV withdrawing money from the bank account of a missing sabungero—reportedly directed by police or associated operatives. These devices may contain communications, recordings, or records relevant to the investigation.

Totoy has expressed concern that without these mobiles, critical evidence—especially footage or messages—may never be recovered.

IV. Police and Administrative Repercussions

Totoy’s affidavit also identified at least twelve police officers accused of participating in abductions and transfers of missing sabungeros. He implicated a former National Capital Region Police Office chief, Lt. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, among others.

In response, the National Police Commission is reportedly conducting administrative proceedings. Several officers have been placed under restrictive duty or transferred pending further investigation. Totoy indicated that the apparatus of some officers may have influenced efforts to impair the integrity of the case by withholding key materials.

V. Why This Is a Critical Development

Potential obstruction of justice: Seizing the phones undermines efforts to verify Totoy’s statements and threatens the admissibility of digital evidence.
Witness intimidation concerns: Removing personal effects and communication devices may constitute coercive tactics aimed at destabilizing witnesses.
Digital evidence gap: Totoy claimed that Atong Ang previously ordered the destruction of his own mobile phones—adding urgency to the preservation of any devices still intact elsewhere.

VI. Totoy’s Reaction and Public Position

Totoy made clear he is enraged, emphasizing that the seizure of his brothers’ gadgets feels like an attempt to control or restrict vital information. He shared that they are being monitored and pressured. Nevertheless, he remains committed to coming forward with the complete truth—even if key devices are gone.

In his own words: “I am fighting not only for justice, but to make sure the missing are heard—even if some evidence has been taken from us.”

VII. Investigation Status and Next Steps

The Department of Justice and the PNP are continuing efforts to secure witness protection and preserve remaining evidence. Totoy is already under protective custody and is set to apply for inclusion in the official Witness Protection Program. Investigators have confirmed active search efforts in Taal Lake and are coordinating additional witness testimonies.

Further legal motions may be filed once Totoy formally names the officer in his affidavit. Authorities have so far promised to treat all claims with due process—including potential obstruction of justice charges.

VIII. Summary Table

Issue
Key Concern

Confiscated devices
Twelve cellphones, passport, and personal items taken by senior officer

Affected individuals
Totoy’s brothers Elakim and Jose, both potential witnesses

Alleged rationale
To silence or obstruct access to evidence

Investigative impact
Loss of messages, photos, videos; possible witness intimidation

Official follow-up actions
Administrative complaints, protective custody, formal affidavit pending

IX. Conclusion: Evidence in Jeopardy, Justice at Stake

The seizure of WhatsApp and mobile data from Totoy’s brothers may represent a serious blow to a case now gathering momentum. For families of the missing sabungeros and for Totoy himself, these digital tools may hold the last remaining eyewitness records. As official investigations progress, ensuring these devices—or at least their data—is accounted for may prove decisive in achieving transparency and eventual accountability.

📚 Related Articles for Further Reading

“Whistleblower Totoy Identifies Twelve Police Officers in Missing Sabungeros Case” (SunStar Philippines)
“Human Bones Found at Taal Lake; Authorities Name Police General in Allegations” (Philstar)
“Two Brothers of Whistleblower Totoy Sent Back to Philippines; Held for Questioning” (TV5 News)
“Totoy Says Atong Ang Ordered Phones Burned: Digital Evidence Destroyed” (News5)
“PNP Places 15 Officers Under Custody as Probe Into Missing Sabungeros Unfolds” (Malaya Business Insight)
“Gen. Estomo Denies Involvement; Demands Apology from Totoy” (GMA News)