MANILA, Philippines – "Alyas Totoy," the key witness in the disappearance of the 'sabungeros' allegedly dumped in Taal Lake, has come forward, according to an exclusive interview by Emil Sumanguil of GMA News, which was aired on 24 Oras.
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| Photo courtesy: Atong Ang (Facebook/Screenshot from 24 Oras/@mkqua (IG) |
In Emil Sumanguil’s interview on Wednesday, July 2, the head of the security agency, Julie Dondon Patidongan, directly named businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and his business partner, female celebrity/actress Gretchen Barretto, who operate a farm and arena (sabungan) as allegedly being behind the gruesome killing of the missing sabungeros. According to Patidongan’s testimony, the victims were disposed of in Taal Lake.
SEE ALSO: 34 missing sabungeros buried in Taal Lake – suspect
Patidongan reportedly came forward due to the accusations being hurled against him by opposing parties. He said that he named the two in his affidavit. In his statement, Patidongan claimed that it was Ang who allegedly gave the orders to eliminate the sabungeros, with the help of certain members of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Patidongan clarified that he had no involvement in the deaths of the sabungeros, saying he was merely following orders as a farm manager of Ang.
Patidongan also responded to reports that Ang plans to file charges against him over the accusations, as well as over the alleged extortion involving 300 million pesos. According to him, by taking such action, Ang would essentially be filing a case against himself.
Patidongan called on Barretto to cooperate with authorities. Meanwhile, he also revealed that Ang’s camp allegedly sent him an affidavit of recantation, asking him to sign it in order to retract all his previous statements regarding the missing sabungeros.
As of this writing, there has been no reaction, response, or statement from the camps of Ang and Barretto regarding the serious allegations made against them.
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express