DOJ summons Atong Ang, others over missing sabungeros case

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued subpoenas to several individuals in response to a murder complaint filed by the families of missing sabungeros.

In an interview with state-run network PTV on Wednesday, September 10, DOJ spokesperson Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano said that the summons was sent to 59 to 60 respondents in the case.

“So nagsimula po tayo mag-serve ng subpoenas kahapon at ngayon po nagpapatuloy po tayo sa pag-serve ng mga subpoenas na ‘yun,” Clavano said.

(So we started serving the subpoenas yesterday and we are continuing to serve them today.)

When asked if tycoon Atong Ang was among those served by the summons, Clavano stated that Ang would "definitely" have received a subpoena, adding that the goal was for all 59 to 60 respondents to be served by the end of the day.

The Department of Justice also issued subpoenas to former National Capital Region Police Office chief, retired Police General Jonnel Estomo, and 18 other police officers.

The subpoenas were issued as part of a preliminary investigation into complaints that include multiple murder, kidnapping with serious illegal detention and other related charges. It was filed by the families of the missing cockfight enthusiasts on Aug. 1, 2025.

It could be recalled that Ang, three other individuals, and actress Gretchen Barretto were implicated by self-proclaimed whistleblower Julie Patidongan as the masterminds behind the disappearance of the cockfight enthusiasts.

This was denied by Ang and Barretto. In response, the tycoon filed complaints of conspiracy to commit attempted robbery with violence against or intimidation of persons, grave threats, grave coercion, slander and incriminating innocent persons against Patidongan.

Also, according to the DOJ spokesperson, the Philippine Coast Guard has reportedly retrieved another set of human remains from the lake bed of Taal Lake — the place where Patidongan claimed that the missing cockfight enthusiasts were thrown after being executed.

These remains will undergo DNA testing to determine if they are connected to the missing individuals, according to Clavano.