DOJ subpoenas ex lovers Atong Ang, Gretchen Barretto over Missing Sabungeros case

By Jed Queenny Cruz

The Department of Justice issued a subpoena to businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, actress Gretchen Barretto, and over 60 other individuals in connection with the disappearance of the cockfighting enthusiasts known locally as “sabungeros”.

The subpoenas followed DOJ’s preliminary investigation since the issue had gone viral and brought so much public attention. The accused were earlier issued an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) to prevent them from leaving the country.

The first hearing is scheduled to take place on September 18, 2025, giving Ang, Barretto, and more than 60 others an opportunity to respond to the allegations and defend themselves.

According to the reports, the missing sabungeros gone off the grid around the year 2021 and 2022 with most cases centered around the province of Laguna. The star witness, Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, who served as Ang’s security at the cockfighting area, claimed that both Ang and Barretto has something to do with the alleged abductions. They both have denied their involvement in this case.

Ang had earlier filed a counter-affidavit before the Mandaluyong Regional Trial Court refuting the claims, while Barretto similarly denied any role in the case. Barretto, through her lawyer Alma Mallonga, claims that she was merely an investor of Pitmaster Group and denies any knowledge about the missing sabungeros’ whereabouts.

The Department of Justice began serving subpoenas on Tuesday, DOJ Spokesperson Mico Clavano said.

During the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing, Clavano explained: “Their subpoenas have been issued from the preliminary report given by the NPS (National Prosecution Service) as against the 59 or 60 respondents in the case of the missing sabungeros.”

Clavano said that the serving of subpoenas is expected to be concluded within Wednesday.