Whistleblower to File Countercharges Against Atong Ang
MANILA, Philippines — Whistleblower Julie Patidongan announced plans to file countercharges against businessman Atong Ang, whom he accused as the mastermind behind the abductions of cockfighting enthusiasts, also known as sabungeros. This development intensifies the ongoing controversy surrounding the disappearance of several sabungeros in recent years.
On July 3, Atong Ang filed a complaint against Patidongan, accusing him of attempting to extort P300 million and threatening to implicate him in the disappearances. Responding to these allegations, Patidongan said, “On Monday, I will respond to Mr. Atong Ang’s complaint, and then I will also file charges against him.” He added, “The cases he filed against me—I will just turn them back on him.”
Background of the Sabungeros’ Disappearances
Atong Ang is a known figure in the gambling industry, serving as the vice president of an online cockfighting company. Patidongan worked under him, managing farms linked to the Pitmasters Group, which is involved in e-sabong or online cockfighting operations.
Patidongan is also among six security personnel from Manila Arena facing charges related to kidnapping and illegal detention. These charges stem from the January 2022 disappearance of five sabungeros and their driver, which has drawn significant public attention and investigation by government bodies.
Claims and Denials in the Ongoing Investigation
In a June interview, Patidongan alleged that Atong Ang ordered the killing of sabungeros caught cheating in the games. Meanwhile, Ang firmly denied these accusations, calling them “entirely false and without basis.” He also expressed concern over the damage to his reputation caused by what he described as a “trial by publicity.”
Legal representatives for both parties have yet to provide detailed comments as investigations continue.
Committee Investigation and Public Interest
The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs has been conducting hybrid hearings to address the alarming number of disappearances among sabungeros and e-sabong enthusiasts. The case has highlighted issues within the gambling industry and raised questions about security and accountability.
As this legal battle unfolds, both sides have taken aggressive stances, with whistleblower Patidongan determined to challenge the allegations against him and to hold Atong Ang accountable for the purported crimes.
For more news and updates on sabungeros controversies, visit Filipinokami.com.
