Emil Sumangil is Back with a Big Story
EMIL SUMANGIL – The veteran journalist returned to TV on July 12, 2025, assuring the public he’s safe and inviting viewers to watch his special report on the missing sabungeros case.
Emil made his return to the public eye on Saturday, July 12, 2025, through two videos released by GMA Public Affairs on Facebook. In the first video, the veteran journalist expressed heartfelt thanks to the public for their concern and unwavering support. Dressed in a navy blue jacket, he assured everyone that he is alive, well, and had simply taken a short vacation.
Sumangil’s absence from GMA-7’s primetime newscast 24 Oras had sparked concern among his friends and loyal viewers, especially after his wife, Michelle Tolentino Sumangil, asked for prayers on July 4. This followed his explosive exclusive interview with whistleblower Julie Patidongan about the missing “sabungeros” (cockfighting enthusiasts).
In the video, Emil addressed rumors circulating on social media, saying, “Ako’y nagbakasyon lamang at kabaligtaran sa mga ilang naglabasan sa social media, ako po ay buhay na buhay.” He expressed deep gratitude to the public, saying their concern “nakakataba ng puso,” and promised to continue doing what is right for the Filipino people, guided by faith and duty.
The second video was an invitation to watch Resibo: Meron o Wala, a special investigative report airing on GMA-7. The report focuses on the controversial case of more than a hundred missing sabungeros from 2021. Julie Patidongan previously identified businessman and gambling figure Charlie “Atong” Ang as the alleged mastermind behind the disappearances. She also implicated actress Gretchen Barretto and several members of the Philippine National Police.
On July 3, Atong Ang denied the accusations and criticized GMA Integrated News for alleged biased reporting. Then, on July 11, members of the Philippine Coast Guard discovered sacks containing human bones in Taal Lake, Batangas—based on a location tip provided by Patidongan.