The Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed that it has summoned high-profile personalities and law enforcement officials—including businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, actress Gretchen Barretto, and former Metro Manila police chief Gen. Jonnel Estomo—in connection with the still unresolved case of the missing “sabungeros” or cockfighting enthusiasts.
Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon revealed that DOJ process servers began distributing the subpoenas on Tuesday, September 9, and continued into Wednesday. In total, more than 60 individuals were issued subpoenas, among them 18 police officers linked to the controversial case.
The subpoenas form part of the preliminary investigation into multiple complaints that include charges of murder, kidnapping with serious illegal detention, and other related offenses. Respondents are required to submit their counter-affidavits once hearings are scheduled, giving them the opportunity to address the allegations.
The case has gripped public attention since early 2022, when reports of sabungeros disappearing one by one shocked the cockfighting community and raised questions about the involvement of organized groups and even law enforcement. Families of the missing men have long appealed for swift justice, saying the victims vanished under suspicious circumstances after attending online and live cockfighting matches.
Fadullon did not disclose when the first hearing would take place, but confirmed the investigation is moving forward. “The respondents will have the chance to present their side,” he said.
For their part, Ang, Barretto, and Estomo have previously denied any involvement, dismissing the accusations as unfounded. Still, their inclusion in the DOJ’s list of respondents underscores the gravity of the inquiry and the wide net being cast by investigators.
As the probe deepens, the missing sabungeros case continues to test the government’s ability to deliver accountability—especially given the mix of powerful names, law enforcement officials, and ordinary families desperate for answers.