UNBELIEVABLE REVEAL: Sabungeros EXPOSED as Cheaters — Atong Ang and Gretchen Barretto Outraged as Allegations Spark Scandal and Criminal Probe

A bombshell accusation has ignited a storm in Philippine society. Whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, a former security chief for gambling tycoon Atong Ang, has alleged that high-stakes sabungeros—participants in the country’s traditional cockfighting culture—were systematically cheating, triggering outrage from powerful figures including Atong Ang and celebrity icon Gretchen Barretto. Here’s what was uncovered and how the drama threatens to engulf national institutions.

Atong Ang denies involvement in missing sabungeros case, files complaint vs former employees | Joel R. San Juan

The Allegations
According to Patidongan, sabungeros were involved in “pagti-tiyope” (match-fixing) during live and online cockfights. At a secret meeting held at the Manila Arena office of Ang’s company, he claims that Ang proposed dealing with cheating sabungeros “harshly,” a proposal that Gretchen Barretto reportedly supported by raising her hand—an act Patidongan cites as proof she was privy to the violent plan.

Barretto has strongly denied these claims. Her attorney issued a statement noting she was merely one of over 20 investors in the “alpha” group and “attended no meetings where approvals were sought or given to abduct sabungeros.” They described Patidongan’s account as “plain invention.”

Meanwhile, Atong Ang was named by the whistleblower as the alleged brains behind the operation, with fellow sabungeros’ families surprisingly unshocked by his involvement. Ang has responded by filing slander charges and firmly declaring his innocence.

Justice Department Steps In
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed the inclusion of both Ang and Barretto in the investigation, pending the outcome of ongoing evidence collection. Technical divers and underwater drones have been deployed into the depths of Taal Lake, where authorities suspect victims may have been disposed of—some estimates suggest as many as 100 missing sabungeros.

Public Fallout and Reactions
Families of the missing sabungeros, already familiar with Atong Ang’s reputation, voiced no surprise at the allegations. The scandal raises questions about corruption in the cockfighting industry—long seen as a traditional pastime, but now linked to greed, dishonesty, and possibly murder.

What Happens Next
Formal charges may soon be filed against Ang, Barretto, and others in the “alpha” gambling group.
Divers are intensifying their mission in Taal Lake for possible remains and forensic evidence.
Barretto has pledged full cooperation and urged the public to await the investigation’s findings.
This scandal has ignited fierce debate over the morality of e-sabong, the accountability of celebrities, and the rule of law.

This explosive story blends celebrity scandal, secretive meetings, and possible mass disappearance—leaving many asking: Could these popular figures really be connected to a mass abduction scheme tied to cheating in cockfights?