Gambling Tycoon Charged with Murder Over Disappearances in the Philippines
The Disappearance of 34 Men Linked to Cockfighting Events
Families of 34 men who vanished following cockfighting events in the Philippines have formally lodged murder and illegal detention charges against gambling magnate Charlie “Atong” Ang. This accusation deepens a national mystery that has persisted for more than two years. Ang has expressed his willingness to confront these allegations, firmly denying their validity and labeling them as falsehoods.
Key Witnesses Strengthen the Case
Recently, bereaved relatives submitted their criminal complaints to the Department of Justice, seeking to end the prolonged silence surrounding a series of similar disappearances among cockfighting aficionados, known locally as sabungeros, since 2022. The legal action also implicates suspected members of the secretive group dubbed the “Alpha Group” and certain officers within the Philippine National Police.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed the official submission of these complaints while underscoring that investigations by the police are still underway. Ang, speaking through his attorney, has vehemently denied involvement and accused the primary accuser, whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, of orchestrating the crimes himself.
“Patidongan’s account is fabricated. He is now falsely accusing his superiors in a story designed to evade the repercussions of his own criminal activities.”
Gabriel Villareal, attorney for Charlie “Atong” Ang
Central to the accusation are Patidongan’s detailed claims, which outline the timing, locations, and methods of the alleged abductions and murders, as well as the involvement of individuals connected to Ang’s operations. Patidongan’s brother, Elakim, has also provided eyewitness testimony, claiming to have witnessed the executions of ten missing sabungeros.
Thorough Review by Prosecutors Ahead
In response to the allegations, Ang has taken legal action against former associates, accusing them of attempting to implicate him falsely. He insists that these accusations form part of a deliberate campaign by disgruntled and opportunistic ex-employees seeking to harm his reputation.
Meanwhile, a leaked document reportedly sourced from the whistleblower’s statement is circulating widely on social media. It names various law enforcement and elected officials as collaborators in the disappearances. Although authorities have yet to confirm the document’s authenticity, Remulla revealed that numerous members linked to the illegal “Alpha Group” are actively under investigation.
“This may be the first instance in Philippine history involving a whistleblower exposing the deeds of a criminal group. The process will be lengthy, and we must exercise patience.”
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla
Despite the severity of the charges, prosecutors are proceeding with caution. A dedicated panel will scrutinize the complaint, with hearings expected to commence soon. Justice Secretary Remulla emphasized that no rulings have been made yet and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to due legal process. For the families of the missing, these developments have reignited a sense of hope after years of uncertainty.