Relatives of 34 men who disappeared after cockfighting events in the Philippines have filed charges of murder and illegal detention against gambling tycoon Charlie “Atong” Ang, escalating a mystery that has gripped the nation for over two years. Ang communicated his readiness to address these accusations, maintaining that they are nothing more than a fabrication.
Several Key Witnesses Underpin the Case
On Friday, grieving family members marched into the Department of Justice with criminal complaints in an attempt to break a silence that has dragged on for years since cockfighting enthusiasts, known as sabungeros, began disappearing under eerily similar circumstances beginning in 2022. Suspected members of the clandestine organization “Alpha Group” and several Philippine National Police officers also face legal action.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed the formal filing. However, he was adamant that the police investigation remains ongoing. Ang, who addressed the court through his lawyer, denied any involvement. He accused the case’s primary witness, self-proclaimed whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, of being the true mastermind behind the crimes.
Patidongan’s story is a fabrication. He would now point to his superiors as masterminds in an incredulous story he had concocted to avoid the consequences of his criminal designs.
Gabriel Villareal, lawyer of Charlie “Atong” Ang
Patidongan’s statements form the core of the complaint. According to investigators, the information contains detailed accounts of where, when, and how the killings and abductions allegedly occurred, including the roles played by several individuals related to Ang’s organization. Julie’s brother, Elakim Patidongan, also contributed witness testimony, reportedly witnessing the execution of ten missing sabungeros.
Prosecutors Will Carefully Examine the Evidence
Ang has responded to the accusations by taking legal countermeasures, filing a separate complaint against former associates for an alleged attempt to frame him. He maintains that any accusations implicating him as part of a criminal syndicate are a deliberate attack by rogue ex-employees and opportunists seeking leverage.
Meanwhile, a leaked list allegedly originating from the whistleblower’s affidavit is gaining popularity on social media. The document names law enforcement officials and elected officials as accomplices in the disappearances. While authorities have not verified the list, Remulla admitted that many individuals from the illegal organization “Alpha Group” are under active investigation.
I believe this is the first time in Philippine history that we have a whistleblower for the actions of a criminal organization. This will be a long process. We need to be patient.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla
Despite the chilling allegations, prosecutors remain cautious. A special panel will examine the complaint, and hearings should begin shortly. Remulla emphasized that the court has not yet reached a verdict and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to due process. As this case evolves, the families of the missing men are clinging to renewed hope after years of silence.
