The case of missing cockfight enthusiasts (sabungeros) from the pandemic era, tied to Manila Arena and tycoon Atong Ang, has gained renewed attention in 2025 via a whistleblower's claims. Rappler ranks it among the year's biggest political stories, as the DOJ eyes kidnapping and homicide charges amid ongoing probes.
The disappearances of dozens of sabungeros across Luzon began during pandemic lockdowns, when enthusiasts gathered for cockfights but vanished—six are specifically linked to Manila Arena in filed charges.
Recent whistleblower testimony implicating Ang has revived scrutiny, following DOJ updates on potential inclusion after preliminary investigation. Officials plan to file kidnapping with homicide and serious illegal detention charges against Ang and associates, though actress Gretchen Barretto was dropped for lack of evidence.
Fact-checks confirm no complaint against Sen. Ronald dela Rosa. The victims' remains remain unfound. This development underscores gambling vulnerabilities during crises and questions the government's handling, fueling key 2025 political debates in the Philippines.
