Atong Ang Denies Being the Mastermind Behind Missing ‘Sabungeros’ Case
ATONG ANG – The businessman has spoken out after being accused of masterminding the disappearance of over 100 cockfighting enthusiasts, or sabungeros, whose bodies were allegedly dumped in Taal Lake.
In a press briefing held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, Ang dismissed the allegations made by whistleblower Julie Dondon Patidongan, also known as “Totoy,” claiming the accusations were financially motivated. He said Patidongan had been demanding money from their group in exchange for silence and a chance to flee the country. Ang described him as someone who appears to be after nothing but money and suggested that Patidongan is used to taking money and running away. He added that he is unaware of Patidongan’s full background but questioned his credibility.
“Si Dondon makikita mo talaga utak n’ya eh, I think pera-pera lang talaga ang habol n’ya. Isipin mo sinasabi n’ya pati kagabi. Bigyan siya ng pera kasi tatakbo na raw. Akala mo yung ginawa n’ya pwede niyang takbuhan nang bigla, hindi ganun eh,” Atong Ang said. “Kasi sanay naman yata siyang gumawa ng pera’t tumakbo eh. Hindi ko alam ang background n’yan eh.”
This statement came a day after Patidongan publicly accused Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto of ordering the killings of more than 100 missing sabungeros. According to Patidongan, Ang, as chairman of Pitmaster, was the alleged mastermind behind the operations and gave the direct orders to “eliminate” the victims.
Ang, however, denied all claims and emphasized that Patidongan had long been trying to extort money from them to prevent the release of his sworn affidavit, which has now come to light.
He also expressed his willingness to cooperate fully with the investigation into the disappearances and promised transparency throughout the process. On the same day as his press briefing, Ang officially filed a complaint-affidavit to counter the allegations made against him.
The case has drawn significant public attention, raising concerns about illegal activities linked to online sabong and the safety of those involved. Authorities continue to investigate the matter.