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PTFoMS to investigate whistleblower's threats vs TV reporter

Philippines | National

PTFoMS to investigate whistleblower's threats vs TV reporter

By Argyll Cyrus Geducos

Malacañan Palace (Manila Bulletin/File Photo)

Malacañan Palace (Manila Bulletin/File Photo)

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) has launched an investigation into alleged death threats made by Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, the self-proclaimed whistleblower in the missing sabungero case, against a television reporter.

PTFoMS Executive Director and Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr. confirmed that the agency had already spoken with News5 correspondent Gary de Leon, who verified the incident.

According to Torres, the case was first referred to the task force by the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), after De Leon sought their help regarding the threats to his life reportedly issued by Patidongan.

In a statement, NUJP said the incident happened on Oct. 27, 2025, when De Leon reached out to Patidongan and his lawyers for comment on a developing news story about the missing sabungeros.

NUJP said the whistleblower allegedly accused the reporter of being “biased and paid,” remarks that De Leon denied, calling them baseless and unfair.

The journalist group strongly condemned the threats, saying they highlight the risks still faced by reporters in the Philippines who are merely fulfilling their duty to inform the public.

It also encouraged all media outlets and newsrooms to implement protocols to ensure the safety of their reporters.

PTFoMS said it expects De Leon to formally submit his affidavit soon to aid in the investigation and determine whether criminal or administrative complaints should be filed.

Related Tags

PTFOMS missing sabungero death threat

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