Whistleblower Stands by Claims Linking Ex-PNP General to Missing ‘Sabungeros’; Over 30 Under Probe – DOJ

MANILA, Philippines — Julie Patidongan, also known by the alias “Totoy,” is standing firm on his explosive allegations linking retired Police General Jonnel Estomo to the case of missing cockfighting enthusiasts, or “sabungeros,” and has refused to issue an apology.

In a July 14 press conference at the National Police Commission (Napolcom), Patidongan claimed Estomo was part of an alleged "Alpha Group" supposedly behind gambling operations led by controversial businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang.

Patidongan, a former aide of Ang, previously accused the businessman of being the mastermind behind the disappearances.

“I won’t apologize. I know him (Estomo) — they’ve been working together since the Meridian days,” Patidongan said in an interview, referring to a dismantled jueteng operation.

He also challenged Estomo to take a lie detector test.

Patidongan is expected to submit a sworn affidavit next week formally naming Estomo and other alleged members of the "Alpha Group."

Estomo, for his part, has denied any involvement and warned he would file charges against Patidongan if the latter does not retract his statements and issue a public apology.

DOJ: More Than 30 Under Investigation

Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed on Friday, July 18, that over 30 individuals are now under investigation in connection with the case of the missing sabungeros.

Remulla emphasized the importance of Patidongan’s testimony, describing him as a “very reliable” source of information.

However, the whistleblower has not yet submitted a formal affidavit, and discussions are ongoing regarding the possibility of placing him under the Witness Protection Program.

“He knows a lot of data,” Remulla said, noting the DOJ continues to verify and contextualize the information for potential prosecution.

When asked, Remulla confirmed the number of persons of interest has grown significantly. “Many already. Maybe more than 30,” he said.

He also acknowledged the possibility that Patidongan could become a state witness but clarified that the DOJ must first validate and organize the evidence.

“We have to put everything within the context of the prosecution service. That’s the role of the DOJ — where we can help each other,” Remulla explained.

PCG Suspends Taal Lake Search Due to Bad Weather

In a separate development, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has suspended its search and retrieval operations in Taal Lake due to inclement weather conditions as of Friday.