Atong Ang Hids Key Witness in Cambodia

-Gillian Paul Abayon

On Monday, DOJ Secretary Crispin Remulla revealed that Gambling Tycoon and suspected Mastermind Atong Ang had hidden a key witness to the on going investigation of the Missing Sabungeros in Cambodia.

“Atong Ang deliberately hid him. He had him flee, even (gave him) a fake passport so he could leave”. Remulla said.

The witness has been identified as Elakim Patidongan, the brother of whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, also known as “Totoy.”

According to Sec. Remulla, this is a major breakthrough in the high profile case that intrigued the nation.

The DoJ Sec. said that Elakim witnessed the killing of at least 10 victims, calling his testimony the “missing factor” that helps strengthen the investigation specially after human remains were discovered in Taal Lake.

“Elakim’s testimony is one of the most significant developments so far”. The Secretary added.

Last week, the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed that two of Alyas Totoy’s siblings Elakim and Jose Patidongan had been arrested abroad and flown back to the Philippines on 22 July, and were considered intregal figures in the missing sabungeros case. Both have submitted their affidavits regarding what they know about the case. It was reported that Elakim was caught using the ATM card of Melbert John Santos, one of the sabungeros who went missing in Laguna. While his brother, Jose was reportedly seen in a video escorting Michael Bautista who was handcuffed.