Businessman Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto have been named suspects in the case of the missing cockfighting enthusiasts, the Department of Justice confirmed Thursday.
Justice Secretary Boying Remulla said both individuals were identified during the investigation, prompting authorities to include them as suspects in the ongoing probe. “Mapapasama sila, kasi pinangalanan sila, so we have to include them as suspects,” Remulla told reporters during a media interview.
He emphasized that prosecutors are now evaluating the gathered evidence. “Ie-e-evaluate ‘yan ng mga fiscals… so that we will know what cases to be filed properly,” he said, adding that filing of charges could happen “sooner than later.”
Remulla acknowledged that the case remains complex, citing financial and political influence as major hurdles. He noted that a case buildup is underway against the two, but stressed the need to validate certain information.
He also revealed that authorities are focusing on a so-called “alpha group” behind online cockfighting operations, saying, “There are 20 people in the alpha list… The alpha group is the main group that run the show.”
Meanwhile, Ang has fired back, filing a complaint against the whistleblower who implicated him. He claims the accuser is motivated by money and is attempting to extort from his camp.
The disappearances of the “sabungeros” have gripped public attention for years, with families still searching for answers.
