Gretchen Barretto Denies Involvement in Missing Sabungeros Case
MANILA, Philippines — Actress Gretchen Barretto’s camp firmly denied any involvement in the case of the 34 missing sabungeros, or cockfighting enthusiasts, despite whistleblower claims linking her and businessman Atong Ang as key figures. Barretto’s representatives emphasized her limited role as an investor and disavowed all accusations.
Through her lawyer Alma Mallonga, Barretto clarified that she was only an investor in the Pitmaster Group and had no knowledge of the disappearances that began in January 2022. “She attended no meetings where approvals were sought nor given to implement the disappearances,” the statement said, calling the allegations “plain invention.”
Accusations from Whistleblower Julie Patidongan
The whistleblower, Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, who previously worked closely with Atong Ang as his farm manager and aide in cockfighting ventures, accused Barretto of being an “alpha member” of the Pitmaster Group, implying she was aware of all operations, including the abductions. However, Barretto’s camp rejected this, stating she neither operated the sabungan nor participated in the suspended e-sabong activities.
Barretto also revealed she was targeted in an extortion attempt, where she was asked to pay money in exchange for removing her name from the suspect list. She refused, asserting, “because she had done nothing wrong.”
Call for Fair and Thorough Investigation
Barretto expressed her commitment to cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation. “Ms. Barretto awaits the results of the investigation and will fully cooperate in the process. This is her priority,” her lawyer said. She also urged authorities to conduct a fair and thorough inquiry, and appealed to the public to withhold judgment until facts emerge.
Meanwhile, Patidongan appealed to Barretto to assist in exposing the truth by testifying against Atong Ang. He also implicated a former local government official, several police officers, and a former judge in the case, suggesting a wider network of involvement.
Barretto and her camp remain hopeful that the investigation will clear her name and reveal the true circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the sabungeros.
For more news and updates on the missing sabungeros case, visit Filipinokami.com.