Whistleblower Alleges Atong Ang’s Lawyer Is Part of Missing Sabungero Cover-Up

July 16, 2025

🔍 Overview

A major twist has unfolded in one of the Philippines’ most chilling criminal investigations in recent years. A whistleblower at the heart of the missing sabungeros case has now publicly accused Atty. Lorna Kapunan, lawyer of controversial businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, of helping suppress evidence and obstruct justice.

This explosive claim was made by Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, also known as “Totoy,” who has been under police protection since he emerged as a key witness in what is suspected to be a series of abductions and killings involving over 30 missing cockfighting enthusiasts (sabungeros).

In a story that has already entangled political names, police officers, and celebrities, this latest allegation raises questions not just about crime, but about power, privilege, and the reach of legal protection.

📌 Part 1: The Disappearance of the Sabungeros

Between 2021 and early 2022, more than 30 sabungeros mysteriously vanished across Luzon. Some were last seen at cockfighting arenas. Others were abducted from highways. Despite public outcry, investigations stalled, and no bodies were recovered for months.

The case captured national attention. Footage of abductions, tearful appeals from families, and growing suspicion of police involvement made headlines. Theories swirled—from gambling debts to organized crime—but no conclusive evidence emerged.

In 2025, however, a surprising voice emerged: Patidongan, a former insider, claimed he had information that could lead to both truth and justice.

🗣️ Part 2: The Whistleblower Steps Forward

In May 2025, Patidongan released a video naming names: Charlie “Atong” Ang, a well-known gambling operator, and Gretchen Barretto, actress and business partner of Ang, were directly implicated. He claimed they ordered the elimination of sabungeros allegedly involved in rigging online cockfighting results.

His revelations forced authorities to reopen the investigation. Divers searched Taal Lake, where Patidongan alleged bodies were dumped. Bone fragments were discovered. Public pressure mounted.

Patidongan, despite having a criminal history himself, was offered police protection and began cooperating with the Department of Justice (DOJ). But his status as a potential state witness became controversial—especially as those he named struck back.

⚖️ Part 3: Accusing the Lawyer

In early July 2025, Patidongan expanded his allegations, stating that Atty. Lorna Kapunan, Ang’s lawyer, was playing a deeper role than previously known. He accused her of:

Using media and legal tactics to discredit whistleblowers
Influencing law enforcement to stall investigations
Possibly obstructing justice by discouraging victims’ families from pursuing charges

Patidongan said:

“She’s not just protecting a client. She’s part of a machine that made sure the truth wouldn’t come out.”

This triggered intense backlash—and Kapunan responded immediately.

🛡️ Part 4: Kapunan Fights Back

Atty. Kapunan, a high-profile legal figure known for defending controversial clients, denied all accusations.

She called Patidongan a “self-confessed criminal” and “extortionist,” revealing that:

Patidongan had been charged with frustrated murder, sexual harassment, robbery, and illegal arms
He had allegedly demanded ₱300 million from Ang in exchange for silence
His involvement in a so-called private armed group made him “unfit” for witness protection

Kapunan also filed libel and slander charges against Patidongan and began legal moves to prevent him from being granted state witness status.

“This man is weaponizing lies. The public deserves better. The families of the missing deserve the truth—not circus drama,” Kapunan told reporters.

🔬 Part 5: What the Evidence Says

Despite the fierce legal battle, investigators say they are focusing on evidence, not personalities.

Forensic teams have recovered bone fragments from Taal Lake.
Police are reviewing surveillance videos from cockfighting arenas and highways.
Digital communications, including text messages and financial transfers, are being examined.

Meanwhile, the DOJ has yet to formally approve Patidongan as a state witness but has confirmed he is being considered under the Witness Protection Program.

An insider from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said:

“This is not about who shouts loudest. It’s about proof—and we’re following where that leads.”

📉 Part 6: The Public Trust Crisis

Many legal experts have weighed in on what this conflict represents. The implication of a lawyer in possible obstruction—even without formal charges—has shaken public trust.

According to Atty. Reuben Leano, a professor at UP Law:

“While lawyers must zealously defend their clients, they must never impede justice. If these allegations are proven true, it’s a serious breach of ethical duty.”

Netizens, meanwhile, have reacted emotionally on social media, with trending hashtags like #JusticeForSabungeros, #TotoySpeaks, and #ProtectWhistleblowers. Families of the victims held a vigil on July 14 calling for “full accountability—no matter how powerful the names involved.”

🚨 Part 7: What’s at Stake

This case is no longer just about gambling or even multiple disappearances. It now centers on:

The integrity of law enforcement and the legal profession
The safety of whistleblowers and truth-tellers
Whether public institutions can withstand pressure from elite figures

If the DOJ rules Patidongan credible, and formal charges are filed against Atong Ang and his legal team, it could be one of the largest scandals in Philippine criminal justice history.

📆 What Happens Next?

DOJ Decision

Court Proceedings

Forensic Findings

Congressional Inquiry

📢 Public Reactions

From journalists to advocacy groups, the nation is watching:

Families of the victims have called for international attention, citing fear of a cover-up
Human rights groups have demanded the legal community examine Kapunan’s conduct
Legal watchdogs are calling for clearer rules on how lawyers interact with criminal probes

🧠 Final Thoughts

Whistleblower Dondon Patidongan may be a flawed man—but in a country where the powerful often escape accountability, his voice is rattling cages. Whether he is telling the full truth remains to be proven in court.

Atty. Kapunan’s fierce defense of her client is within her rights—but if her actions cross the line into obstruction, they must be investigated.

Justice will only be served when facts—not status—determine guilt.

📚 Related Articles

Here are several related reads for further information:

“Atong Ang files charges vs. sabungero whistleblower”
tribune.net.ph
“Whistleblower now under PNP protection”
tribune.net.ph
“NAPOLCOM urges whistleblower to file formal complaint”
tribune.net.ph
“Gretchen Barretto, Atong Ang may be included in charges”
philstar.com
“Kin of sabungeros call Atong Ang a ‘monster’ at vigil”
[gmanetwork.com](https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/952540/kin-urge-gov-t-to-hold-atong-ang-accountable-in-missing-sabungeros-case/story/?utm