JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla stated on Friday that actress Gretchen Barretto could be the “Jane Doe” referenced in murder and serious illegal detention charges filed by families of missing cockfighting enthusiasts.
While speaking to reporters, Remulla indicated that Barretto is a person of interest in the case, which names businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and others in a complaint filed earlier that day. Remulla stated, “Meron bang Jane Doe? Maybe if there’s a Jane Doe maybe she’s the one. I don’t know. Pero kasama yan sa pwede nating sabihin na persons of interest.”
The complaint, filed at the Department of Justice (DOJ), seeks to hold Ang, several police officers, and other individuals accountable for the disappearances. Ryan Bautista, brother of one of the missing men, expressed relief, calling the filing a long-awaited step towards justice after a four-year wait. Charlene Lasco, whose brother is also among the missing, confirmed that over 30 families are involved in the complaint.
In addition to Ang, the complaint names Eric dela Rosa, Rjay Mejia, and several police officials. Lasco urged the DOJ to conduct a thorough investigation to establish probable cause and issue arrest warrants. The DOJ is expected to review the complaint and determine the next steps in the investigation.
