House Committee to Summon Key Figures in Missing Sabungeros Case
The House committee on human rights is set to invite gambling tycoon Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto to attend its inquiry into the missing sabungeros case, officials reported. The four-word keyphrase “missing sabungeros case” appears early as the investigation intensifies.
Manila 1st District Representative Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. revealed that both Ang and Barretto, who have been charged with murder, will be called upon to shed light on the matter. “Later on, we’ll call on him too as he was charged for murder, even I think Gretchen Barretto,” Abante stated in a recent interview.
Accusers and Police Officers Also to Be Summoned
Alongside Ang and Barretto, the Patidongan brothers—who are the main accusers—and 18 police officers allegedly involved in the case will also be invited to the probe, community members said. This move aims to uncover the truth behind the mysterious disappearances.
Whistleblower Alleges Mastermind Behind Disappearances
On July 2, whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan claimed that Atong Ang, his former employer, orchestrated the disappearance of several sabungeros between April 2021 and January 2022. Patidongan alleged that those missing were victims of killings linked to accusations of match-fixing.
He further asserted that the remains of 34 victims were dumped in Taal Lake in Batangas. However, both Ang and Barretto have firmly denied these allegations, officials noted.
Legal Actions and Investigations Underway
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued Immigration Lookout Bulletin Orders (ILBO) against Ang, Barretto, and other suspects, DOJ Secretary Crispin Remulla confirmed. The agency is preparing to start a preliminary investigation, with over 60 subpoenas expected to be served to respondents next week.
Meanwhile, the National Police Commission (Napolcom) has filed administrative charges against 12 active police officers accused of involvement in the kidnappings and killings related to the missing sabungeros. The commission is also investigating senior police officials, including generals, for their possible roles in the case.
Ongoing Search for Justice and Transparency
As the inquiry progresses, local leaders and community members continue to call for transparency and accountability. The House committee’s proactive approach reflects the urgency to resolve the missing sabungeros case and bring justice to the victims and their families.
For more news and updates on the missing sabungeros case, visit Filipinokami.com.
