Businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang reportedly attempted to board a flight abroad before authorities intervened at the airport, coinciding with a major breakthrough in the missing cockfighting enthusiasts case. A whistleblower’s explosive testimony has finally tied Ang—and actress Gretchen Barretto—to the disappearance of over 34 sabungeros, with bodies now rumored to have washed ashore near Taal Lake.

The airport showdown
Sources report that Ang, flagged by immigration authorities, was stopped at the departure gate as the DOJ ramps up efforts to serve formal charges. This coincides with heightened scrutiny tied to new forensic signals emerging from the lake.

Whistleblower’s chilling accusation
Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, a former security chief under Ang’s operations, now says he has evidence the missing sabungeros were targeted and killed for allegedly cheating in e-sabong fights. He claims victims were bound with tie-wires and disposed of in Taal Lake. Ang, Patidongan says, orchestrated it all—and Barretto was complicit.

Legal fallout begins
The Department of Justice has formally named both Ang and Barretto as suspects. Justice Secretary Remulla confirmed that affidavits and witness statements are being completed, with charges likely filed soon.

Meanwhile, Ang has denied mastermind claims and is set to file complaints accusing Patidongan of extortion, insisting the whistleblower demanded ₱300 million to retract his statements.

Underwater search at Taal Lake
Prompted by Patidongan’s claims, authorities have requested Japan’s help to deploy underwater drones to examine the depths of Taal Lake. DOJ confirms the investigation is targeting fishponds leased by key suspects—the presumed “ground zero” for the alleged crimes.

Why this matters
This chilling saga reshapes what began as a curiosity-driven disappearance during the pandemic into a possible mass murder for hire—one that implicates elite figures in the lucrative e-sabong circuit. As bodies are sought and legal wheels turn, the nation watches in disbelief and demands justice.

Why you should care:

A high-profile businessman and celebrity face criminal cases tied to mass disappearances

Victims’ families may finally see their day in court

Recovery of bodies from Taal Lake could provide long-awaited closure

Stay tuned. This story is far from over.