Whistleblower testimony, forensic discoveries, and high-profile denials revive interest in the unsolved disappearances of 34 sabungeros linked to the rise and collapse of the Philippines’ e‑sabong industry
BATANGAS, PHILIPPINES – After more than three years of uncertainty, the investigation into the disappearance of dozens of online cockfighting participants—known as sabungeros—has taken a dramatic turn.
On July 10 and 11, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) recovered three sacks from the depths of Taal Lake. One of the sacks contained what authorities described as suspected burned human bones, while the other two contained “suspicious materials” now undergoing forensic analysis.
The remains were retrieved near Barangay Balakilong, Batangas, at depths reaching up to 70 feet. They were turned over to the PNP Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for processing and DNA testing, with reference samples submitted by families of the missing.
“We are proceeding with caution. Confirmation will come only after full forensic certification,” DOJ spokesperson Atty. Mico Clavano said.
A mystery three years in the making
From April 2021 to early 2022, at least 34 men claimed to be connected to the once-booming e‑sabong industry disappeared without a trace. Most were last seen in cockfighting arenas or en route to e‑sabong events in Laguna, Batangas, Bulacan, and Metro Manila. In several cases, vehicles were found abandoned with personal belongings still inside.
As e‑sabong reached daily wagers worth billions of pesos, regulatory gaps and public unease intensified. On May 3, 2022, then-President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the immediate suspension of all e‑sabong operations, citing its “social cost” and its link to mounting disappearances.
Later, on December 29, 2022, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who had assumed office on June 30, 2022, issued Executive Order No. 9, formally extending the nationwide suspension of e‑sabong operations.
Whistleblower ignites renewed investigation
In June 2025, former e‑sabong security chief Julie “Totoy” Patidongan came forward with a sworn affidavit and public interviews, alleging that missing sabungeros had been strangled, burned, and dumped in sacks into Taal Lake to silence them after suspected involvement in rigged matches or unpaid debts.
Patidongan is now under protective custody and is being considered for entry into the DOJ’s Witness Protection Program. His testimony prompted intensified search efforts by the PCG, the Philippine Navy, and international forensic consultants.
DOJ officials stress that Patidongan’s claims are under ongoing verification and must be substantiated by physical evidence and corroborating statements.
Prominent figures named — and deny involvement
In his testimony, Patidongan named two high-profile individuals:
– Charlie “Atong” Ang, a gambling operator with a long history in jueteng and cockfighting, was alleged to have orchestrated efforts to suppress whistleblowers and protect financial interests.
– Gretchen Barretto, an actress and entrepreneur, was cited as an investor in e‑sabong. She has publicly denied any role in operational decisions or wrongdoing.
Both Ang and Barretto have strongly denied Patidongan’s allegations, filing countercharges of extortion and defamation, and asserting that Patidongan demanded large sums in exchange for withholding accusations. As of press time, the DOJ has not filed charges against either individual.
Government response
– Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) Chairman Felix Reyes, who remains in office, publicly dismissed Patidongan’s related claim implicating a retired judge. Reyes called the accusation “baseless” and said that if the whistleblower is found to be spreading false information, he should be held accountable. He also offered to release travel records to disprove the allegation.
