Lorna Kapunan: Whistleblower linked to disappearance of 'sabungeros'?

MANILA — One of the "self-styled whistleblowers" in the case of the missing "sabungeros" (cockfighting enthusiasts) may have been involved in their disappearance, a lawyer representing businessman Atong Ang suggested on Thursday.

Ang has been accused of masterminding the disappearance of several sabungeros between 2021 and 2022.

However, his lawyer, Lorna Kapunan, raised questions on the credibility of Julie "Dondon" Patidongan, who is one of the individuals accusing Ang.

In a DZMM Teleradyo interview, Kapunan said Ang had no involvement in the operations of the farms where the missing sabungeros were employed, noting that they were managed by Patidongan.

"All of these people who have disappeared, whose whereabouts are unknown or presumably killed were under his (Patidongan) direct supervision. Siya nagsu-supervise niyan. Tatlong farms 'yan. Farm manager siya," Kapunan said.

Kapunan answered "yes" when anchor Alvin Elchico asked to clarify her statement: "Iyong mga namatay na sabungero, walang kinalaman categorically si Atong Ang doon. At ang posibleng may kinalaman sa pagkawala noon ay iyong Dondon?"

"Yes. As a matter of fact, the reason Atong Ang is coming forward is gusto niyang tumulong because we asked, 'Why is he coming forward now? Why not four years ago, why not three years ago or five years ago?'" Kapunan said.

Kapunan claimed that Patidongan previously attempted to extort money from Ang and concealed the fact that he was already facing three legal cases in January 2020, including charges of murder, mulitple frustrated murder and robbery, among others.

READ: Former Vice Mayor, actress, other high ranking officials allegedly involved in missing sabungeros case, says whistleblower

The lawyer added that Ang was willing to cooperate with the government regarding the case.

On Thursday, Ang also went to the Mandaluyong Hall of Justice with Kapunan to file charges against those who had accused him of being the mastermind in the case.