Gretchen Barretto, a well-known actress in the Philippines, is now caught in a major controversy. Someone said she had something to do with the disappearance of 34 sabungeros (cockfight players), but she says that’s completely not true.
Let’s break it down simply:
🕵️♂️ Who Made the Accusation?
A man named Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, also called Totoy, used to work for businessman Atong Ang in his cockfighting businesses. Patidongan told the public that Atong Ang was behind the abduction of sabungeros—and he also said Gretchen Barretto agreed to it in a meeting.
😱 Wait—Did Gretchen Really Agree?
No!
Gretchen’s lawyer, Atty. Alma Mallonga, said on TV that Gretchen never joined any meeting where people talked about hurting or taking the sabungeros.
“She didn’t say anything, do anything, or plan anything about their disappearance,” the lawyer said.
“What the man said is just a made-up story.”
🧾 Why Is Gretchen’s Name Even Involved?
Gretchen was just one of the 20 investors in e-sabong (online cockfighting), along with other people.
But she was the one named—why?
“Because she’s famous,” said her lawyer.
“Maybe the whistleblower wanted attention, so he mentioned her name.”
She added:
“Why not mention the other investors? Why just Gretchen?”
⚖️ What Did the Justice Secretary Say?
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said Gretchen and Atong Ang are now being considered as suspects, but it’s only because Patidongan said their names.
Gretchen’s lawyer explained:
“There is still no strong proof. It’s just suspicion—no evidence.”
💰 Extortion Plot?
Atong Ang said Patidongan and another man tried to blackmail him—asking for ₱300 million and threatening to accuse him if he didn’t pay.
Gretchen’s camp said she received a similar threat too.
👩⚖️ So What Happens Now?
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Gretchen hasn’t received a subpoena (official order to appear in court).
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But her lawyer said she is ready to cooperate and tell her side.
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She wants a fair investigation and doesn’t want people to judge her right away.
“Ms. Barretto believes the truth will come out,” her lawyer said.
“She didn’t do anything wrong.”
🔍 In Short…
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Gretchen was named by a whistleblower, but she strongly denies everything.
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Her name was dragged into the issue, possibly because she’s popular.
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She’s asking for fairness and truth, and she’s willing to help investigators.
Now, all eyes are on the investigation—Will it clear her name or uncover something deeper?
