DOJ issues subpoenas vs Atong Ang, Gretchen Barretto & others

• The Department of Justice issued subpoenas to Atong Ang, Gretchen Barretto, retired Police General Jonnel Estomo, and several others over the missing sabungeros case

• The subpoenas also cover 18 police officers as part of the preliminary investigation

• Justice spokesperson Mico Clavano said the investigation involves around 59 to 60 respondents for charges including serious illegal detention and multiple murder

• The first hearing is set for September 18 and Ang, Barretto, and Estomo have denied the allegations

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued subpoenas against businessman Atong Ang, actress Gretchen Barretto, retired Police General Jonnel Estomo, and several others in connection with the murder complaint filed by the families of the missing sabungeros. According to Saleema Refran’s report on Super Radyo dzBB, the DOJ also summoned 18 police officers as part of the widening probe.

Justice spokesperson Mico Clavano confirmed the development in an interview on BP Ngayon, stating: “Subpoenas have been issued from the preliminary report given by the National Prosecution Service as against the 59 or 60 respondents in the case of the missing sabungeros.” The subpoenas are part of the preliminary investigation for serious illegal detention, multiple murder, and other related charges.

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The first hearing on the matter is scheduled for September 18. Ang, Barretto, and Estomo have previously denied the allegations linking them to the case, maintaining that they had no involvement in the disappearance of the missing cockfighting enthusiasts.

Gretchen Barretto is a well-known Filipina actress, socialite, and former singer who rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s. Born on March 6, 1970, she is a member of the prominent Barretto showbiz clan, which includes her sisters Marjorie and Claudine Barretto, both actresses as well. She began her entertainment career as a teen actress under Regal Films, becoming one of the popular “Regal Babies.” She starred in several bold films during the late 1980s, establishing herself as a daring and glamorous figure in Philippine cinema. Over time, she transitioned to television and more mainstream projects, earning critical praise for her acting in drama series and movies.

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In a previous report, families of missing cockfighting bettors filed a murder complaint at the DOJ against businessman Atong Ang, whom a whistleblower pointed to as the mastermind. Actress Gretchen Barretto and retired police general Jonnel Estomo were also named among over 60 people in the complaint. Whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, now turning state witness, claims Ang ordered the killings of bettors suspected of cheating.

In other news, the camp of Gretchen Barretto, through her lawyer, Atty. Alma Mallonga, has released a statement with regards to the allegations hurled against the actress in relation to the case of the missing sabungeros. As per the statement of Mallonga, "Ms. Barretto has only heard about, hence has no relevant knowledge concerning, the disappearances". The statement, released by GMA News also stated that the socialite did not operate a sabungan no has she had any participation in e-sabong operations. “Ms. Barretto regrets that she is being crucified without basis, and has become the subject of unsavory speculation based on rumor. Ms. Barretto understands the importance of resolving the case," the statement added.

Source: KAMI.com.gh