Alias Totoy names Atong Ang, Gretchen Barretto in missing 'sabungeros' case

Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, alias Totoy, a self-confessed witness in the case of the 34 missing sabungeros, has surfaced and named the alleged masterminds behind the string of disappearances that has gripped the nation.

The witness, who previously served as head of security for several cockfighting arenas and eventually as a farm manager, is now among six individuals facing charges in connection with the disappearances. Patidongan has denied direct involvement in the abductions and killings.

"Wala akong kinalaman diyan. Isa lang akong utusan bilang farm manager," he said in a televised interview.

(I have nothing to do with that. I was merely a farmhand.)

But Patidongan went on to identify three individuals he claims orchestrated the crimes: Charlie “Atong” Ang, Eric Dela Rosa, and Engr. Celso Salazar.

“Si Mr. Eric Dela Rosa ang nagmomonitor ng mga palaban at nagsusumbong kay Mr. Atong Ang. Si Mr. Salazar ang inuutusan para ‘i-roll’ ang mga taong nagsusupetsa. Si Mr. Atong Ang ang chairman at pitmaster—siya ang pinaka-mastermind. Siya ang nag-uutos,” Patidongan claimed.

(Mr. Eric Dela Rosa was the one monitoring the fights and reporting to Mr. Atong Ang. Mr. Salazar was ordered to ‘roll’ those who were becoming suspicious. Mr. Atong Ang, the chairman and pitmaster, was the true mastermind. He gave the orders.)

He also linked actress Gretchen Barretto to the case, saying:

“100% may kinalaman siya. Lagi silang magkasama ni Mr. Atong Ang.”

(She’s 100% involved. She was always with Mr. Atong Ang.)

However, he admitted he had no documentary evidence at this time to support his claim.

Patidongan further revealed he was allegedly offered ₱300 million by Ang’s camp in exchange for retracting his accusations via an affidavit.

“Hindi ko tinanggap. Buhay ko at ng pamilya ko ang nakasalalay. Paano na rin ang mga pamilya ng mga nawawalang sabungero?”

(I didn’t accept it. My life and my family’s lives are at stake. What about the families of the missing sabungeros?)

Ang’s legal team has since announced plans to file a complaint-affidavit against Patidongan before the Office of the City Prosecutor. Charges to be filed include attempted robbery with violence, grave threats, grave coercion, inciting against innocent persons, and slander — allegedly damaging Ang’s reputation and causing emotional distress to his family.

Ang has repeatedly denied the accusations, saying he has cooperated with authorities from the beginning.

“There is no truth to Patidongan’s statements,” his legal spokesman said in a statement, appealing to the public and the media to avoid trial by publicity and to respect due process.

When asked to respond, Patidongan said:

“Parang kinasuhan na rin niya ang sarili niya. Siya ang may utos sa lahat.”

(It’s like he’s filing charges against himself. He was the one giving all the orders.)

The witness said he chose to speak out now because he believes the current leadership — under PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla — is committed to uncovering the truth.