MISSING SABUNGEROS SHOCKER: BATO DELA ROSA FIRES BACK at Gretchen Barretto — “DON’T YOU DARE DRAG MY NAME INTO THIS!”
Explosive War of Words Erupts as High-Profile Sabungero Disappearance Scandal Takes a Dark Celebrity-Political Twist!
MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The case of the missing sabungeros — already one of the most baffling and disturbing mysteries in recent Philippine history — has taken a scandalous and unexpected twist. Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa has finally broken his silence, delivering a fiery public response to actress and socialite Gretchen Barretto, who allegedly indirectly implicated him in the growing controversy.
What started as a search for 34 missing individuals involved in e-sabong (online cockfighting) has now spiraled into a heated showdown between power and popularity, with Gretchen’s name surfacing in secret testimonies and whispers of high-level cover-ups. But it was her rumored off-the-record remarks about certain ex-PNP officials “turning a blind eye” that triggered Bato’s explosive reaction — and the nation is watching in shock.
Bato’s Outburst: “I Will Not Be Your Scapegoat!”
Speaking during a Senate session on Wednesday, Senator Dela Rosa was visibly enraged. Without directly naming Gretchen Barretto, his words cut deep:
“If someone has something to say about me, come forward and say it to my face. Don’t throw shade and expect me to stay silent.”
He continued with fire in his voice:
“I worked hard to clean the ranks of the PNP. I did my duty. Don’t you dare twist the narrative to fit your agenda. I am not — and will never be — part of any cover-up.”
Though Barretto had not publicly accused the senator, reports surfaced last week that during a private meeting with investigators, she hinted that former police officials had “ignored red flags” in the early days of the sabungero disappearances — a comment many took as a veiled reference to Bato’s time as PNP chief.
Gretchen Barretto: Silent But Watching
As of this writing, Gretchen Barretto has not issued an official response, but sources close to the socialite claim she was “shocked but not intimidated” by Bato’s outburst. A close friend reportedly said:
“She didn’t name anyone. If he felt hit, maybe there’s a reason. But Gretchen is ready to speak if summoned.”
Rumors continue to swirl that Barretto may have had social connections to prominent figures linked to e-sabong operations, including the now-controversial businessman Atong Ang. Both have denied any wrongdoing, but the public remains suspicious — and now, even more curious.
From Missing Persons to Political Firestorm
Initially, the disappearance of the sabungeros — all men who were involved in online cockfighting either as handlers, operators, or bettors — was seen as a grim criminal investigation. But as weeks turned into months with little to no results, the case began attracting speculation of something far more sinister.
Insiders now claim the sabungero case may involve powerful syndicates, dirty money, and possible police or political protection. This has led to increased public outrage — especially now that names like Barretto and Dela Rosa are being thrown into the mix.
Netizens Explode: “Who’s Really Hiding Something?”
Social media was quick to explode after Bato’s remarks, with hashtags like #BatoVsGretchen, #SabungeroTruthNow, and #WhoIsCoveringUp dominating Philippine Twitter (X).
“Bato’s reaction was too emotional. Is he hiding something or just protecting his image?”
“Gretchen may be controversial, but if she’s ready to testify, let her!”
“This is no longer just about missing men. This is about who’s trying to bury the truth.”
Senate Eyes Summoning Gretchen
In the wake of the public feud, Senate insiders now reveal that Gretchen Barretto may be formally invited to the next hearing to clarify her statements and possible connections to key personalities.
Senator Risa Hontiveros said:
“If there is even a small chance that she holds valuable information, we owe it to the families of the missing sabungeros to hear it — under oath.”
The Real Victims: 34 Men Still Missing
Amid the political and celebrity storm, many fear the original focus — the missing men — is being overshadowed. Families of the sabungeros are once again pleading for justice, frustrated that months of investigations have led to zero arrests, no solid suspects, and now… political drama.
“While they fight, we cry,” said the wife of one missing sabungero. “We just want to know where our husbands are. We don’t care about fame or politics. We want the truth.”
What’s Next?
Gretchen Barretto may be subpoenaed to appear in the next Senate hearing.
Bato Dela Rosa could request a formal clearing of his name through sworn testimonies.
The NBI and DOJ may open a separate probe into possible high-level interference in the investigation.
Public pressure continues to rise, with watchdog groups now calling for an independent task force to oversee the case.
From cockfighting to conspiracy, celebrity to Senate — the disappearance of 34 men has now shaken the entire nation.
And as more names get dragged into the fire, one terrifying question remains unanswered: Who’s really behind the missing sabungeros — and how far will they go to stay hidden?
Stay tuned for more updates as the drama deepens and the truth struggles to surface.
