DOJ asked: Include Atong’s kin, Gretchen in raps

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January 8, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) will review a motion for reconsideration seeking to include more persons in the filing of charges in connection with the disappearance of sabungeros or cockfight enthusiasts.

The families of the missing sabungeros asked the DOJ to reconsider its decision clearing 38 respondents, including actress Gretchen Barretto.

They want Barretto as well as the children and relatives of businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang to be indicted for kidnapping with homicide and serious illegal detention.

“State prosecutors will resolve the motion for reconsideration on the basis of the merits of the arguments,” DOJ spokesman Polo Martinez told The STAR.

Although a whistleblower had identified Barretto as a member of a group that was associated with Ang, the DOJ said “mere association or presence does not constitute proof of conspiracy.”

Martinez said opposing parties have 10 days to file their comment on the motion.

The DOJ panel of prosecutors has 30 days to resolve the petition.

A warrant has not been issued for the arrest of Ang as of Jan. 5 despite the formal filing of criminal charges against him.