President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will ensure accountability in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of several cockfight (sabungero) enthusiasts, vowing that no one will be exempt from the law—regardless of their public profile, Malacañang said on Thursday.
Speaking at a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro responded to questions about the President’s stance following the involvement of well-known figures, such as businessman Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto, who were named by accused Julie “Dondon” Patidongan.
“This case is under the jurisdiction of the DOJ and our law enforcement agencies,” Castro said. “The President and this administration will not spare anyone—regardless of their social status or popularity—if they must be held accountable.”
She emphasized the need for thorough investigations to bring justice to the families of the missing sabungeros.
Patidongan, also known as “Totoy,” claimed that all the missing cockfight bettors had been killed. He identified himself as a former chief of security at Ang’s cockfighting operations.
When asked if Patidongan could be considered a state witness, Castro said that decision would rest with the Department of Justice, based on the validity of his statements.
Meanwhile, Ang has formally filed a complaint against Patidongan, alleging he was the target of a P300 million extortion attempt. The complaint includes charges of conspiracy to commit attempted robbery, grave threats, coercion, slander, and incriminating an innocent person.
Ang’s legal team has strongly denied the accusations made by Patidongan.