Businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang is reportedly preparing to file a complaint affidavit against a man known only as alias “Totoy,” who recently accused him of being the mastermind behind the disappearance of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts, also known as “sabungeros.”
In a recent exclusive interview with GMA News reporter Emil Sumangil, “Totoy” introduced himself as the head of a security agency hired to manage operations in Ang’s cockfighting farms and arenas. He also identified himself as a former insider who claims to know what happened to the missing individuals.
Totoy confessed that the 34 missing sabungeros were killed by strangulation and that their bodies were allegedly dumped in Taal Lake. His revelations, though unverified, have caused widespread outrage and renewed attention to the long-unsolved cases.
Ang, a prominent businessman and a known political figure, strongly denied the accusations. Sources close to him confirmed that he is consulting with his legal team to pursue legal action against Totoy for what he considers false and damaging allegations. According to his camp, the planned complaint affidavit will highlight defamation, perjury, and obstruction of justice.
Adding to the controversy, Totoy also dragged actress Gretchen Barretto into the issue, claiming she is Ang’s girlfriend and alleging her involvement in the supposed cover-up. Barretto has yet to release a statement regarding the matter.
Charlie “Atong” Ang first rose to national prominence in 2001 during the impeachment trial of then-President Joseph Estrada. He was accused of being a major player in illegal gambling operations, particularly jueteng, and was believed to have close ties to the former president. After fleeing to the United States, Ang was extradited to the Philippines, where he pleaded guilty to bribery charges and returned a substantial sum to the government.
Authorities are currently verifying the new claims made by Totoy. Meanwhile, Ang maintains that he is being unfairly targeted and insists that he had no role in the disappearance of the sabungeros. The Department of Justice has yet to comment on whether Totoy will be granted protection as a witness or charged for his admitted involvement.
The upcoming legal battle between Atong Ang and alias Totoy could potentially unravel more truths in the controversial case that has gripped the nation for years.