A criminal complaint for multiple murder and serious illegal detention has been formally filed against businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and several others in connection with the long-standing case of missing cockfighting enthusiasts, also known as sabungeros.
The complaint, lodged before the Department of Justice (DOJ), also names certain members of the so-called “Alpha Group” and some officers from the Philippine National Police (PNP) as respondents. Families of the victims, who have waited years for progress, expressed cautious optimism that justice may finally be within reach.
“We are happy. We have waited four years for this,” said Ryan Bautista, brother of one of the victims, Michael Bautista.
Charlene Lasco, sister of missing sabungero Ricardo Lasco, appealed for a swift and careful investigation. “Our request is for them [DOJ] to carefully study and investigate the case to find probable cause and have a basis to issue a warrant as soon as possible,” she said.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla clarified that while the complaint is a significant step forward, it is only one part of a broader and continuing investigation. He revealed that the complaint includes unnamed individuals listed as John and Jane Does, and it is now the DOJ’s task to determine their identities and roles.
“This will be a long process. We need to be patient,” Remulla said, stressing that the department will thoroughly sift through all witness accounts and pieces of evidence. He added that recovery operations by the Philippine Coast Guard, particularly in Taal Lake, are still ongoing in an effort to locate the missing bodies.
The complaint heavily relies on the sworn affidavit of whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, who, according to Remulla, provided comprehensive information about the abductions—including locations, timelines, and identities of those allegedly involved.
“It is rare to have a highly-placed witness embedded in a criminal organization. I believe this is the first time in Philippine history that we have a whistleblower for the actions of a criminal organization,” Remulla stated, calling Patidongan’s testimony “highly reliable.”
Also included in the complaint is testimony from Elakim Patidongan, who allegedly withdrew money from a missing sabungero’s account and witnessed the killing of 10 individuals. Remulla described his statement as “foolproof.”
A DOJ prosecution panel will now review the complaint and determine the appropriate course of action. “We will be fair. We won’t condemn anyone without a proper hearing. Due process is essential,” Remulla emphasized.
The filing comes amid the online circulation of a supposed list identifying members of the “Alpha Group,” reportedly based on Dondon Patidongan’s affidavit. The list includes names of politicians, law enforcers, and local officials. Remulla acknowledged the list but said authorities are still validating its contents.
Meanwhile, Ang has already denied the allegations and filed his own complaint against Dondon Patidongan and another individual, Alan Bantiles. The counter-complaint includes charges such as grave threats, slander, grave coercion, conspiracy to commit attempted robbery, and falsely implicating an innocent person.
