Concerns over the safety of GMA News anchor Emil Sumangil have grown after his recent exclusive interview with whistleblower Julie “Totoy” Patidongan, a key figure in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of dozens of sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts) since 2021.
The seasoned journalist’s reports, aired on ’24 Oras’ and other GMA news programs, revealed explosive allegations from Patidongan, including claims that the missing individuals were killed and dumped in Taal Lake. Patidongan also implicated prominent names, including businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, actress Gretchen Barretto, and several members of the Philippine National Police.
Following the coverage, concerns for Sumangil’s well-being surfaced online, with netizens calling for protection for the journalist.
The issue gained further traction when Sumangil’s wife, Michelle Sumangil, took to social media on Friday, July 4, to express her family’s fears and ask for prayers.
“We would like to thank the netizens who first initiated and called for the safety and protection of my husband, Emil Sumangil. Your concern, prayers, and vigilance brought light and strength to us during this time,” Michelle wrote in a heartfelt Facebook post.
She also shared a personal prayer for Emil’s safety: “Dear Lord, thank You for Your constant protection and grace.
We lift up Emil into Your loving hands. Surround him with Your divine shield and keep him safe from harm.
May Your peace reign in our hearts as we trust in Your perfect will. Amen.
‘No weapon formed against you shall prosper…’ – Isaiah 54:17.”
Michelle ended her post with the hashtags: #ProtectEmilSumangil #CoverHimInPrayer #TruthWillPrevail #JournalismWithCourage
She followed up on Instagram, once again asking the public for support: “With all humility, I ask for your prayers for my husband, Emil Sumangil. After his recent interview with a key figure in the case of the missing sabungeros, many have expressed concern for his safety. Emil is simply doing what he was called to do — to seek truth, to serve the people, and to give voice to the unheard. Please join me in praying for his protection, strength, and courage as he continues this mission.”
Emil also responded via Facebook, thanking those who have shown concern: “Nakarating po sakin ‘to… ako po’y nagpapasalamat sa pag-aalala ninyo. Salamat, Mahal na Diyos Ama. #InGodWeTrust”
The issue has stirred debate online and in media circles, especially after Atong Ang held a press conference on Thursday, July 3, accusing GMA Integrated News of unfair reporting. He claimed the network failed to seek his side before airing Patidongan’s allegations.
“Lalo na sa Channel 7… hindi naman naririnig ‘yung side namin,” Ang said. “Dapat kung may nag-a-accuse, ‘yung ina-accuse, tatanungin muna bago maglabas. Both sides ilabas.”
In response, GMA News maintained that they had reached out to Ang’s camp, but only received a response after the report had already aired. The network also aired Atong Ang’s full statement in the interest of balanced journalism.
As the investigation into the missing sabungeros intensifies, supporters of Sumangil are calling on authorities to ensure his safety, commending him for his courage in reporting a sensitive and potentially dangerous case.
Sumangil’s reporting has been widely recognized for shedding light on a mystery that has haunted dozens of families.
