Estomo part of Atong's alpha group, Totoy insists | Philstar.com

Philippine law enforcement is reeling after an earth-shattering leaked audio recording exposed General Benjamin “Benjie” Estomo allegedly admitting that he received “something” from notorious gambling kingpin Atong Ang. The voice, eerily matching Estomo’s, can be heard clearly saying:

“Binigyan ako ni Atong… may iniabot siya.”

That single sentence has detonated a bomb within the police force, potentially uncovering what critics have long feared — that even top PNP officials may be compromised by the very criminal syndicates they’re sworn to fight.

 The Recording That Shook the System

First posted anonymously and spread like wildfire on encrypted chat groups before hitting public platforms, the unauthorized recording appears to be from a closed-door meeting. In it, Gen. Estomo is allegedly heard discussing an encounter with Atong Ang, implying he accepted something — though the specifics remain dangerously vague.

Inside sources say the recording was made by someone within Estomo’s inner circle, and the leak was a “calculated move” to force the issue out into the open.

 Was This the Smoking Gun?

For years, Atong Ang has been suspected of pulling strings within the police and political systems, especially regarding jueteng, e-sabong, and high-stakes gambling protection rackets. But this may be the first time a sitting general was caught on record admitting to receiving anything.

Investigators now believe this could uncover a deeper web of collusion, possibly involving multiple officers and years of quiet payouts.

 Deafening Silence from the PNP

So far, no denial, no explanation, and no official comment from Gen. Estomo or the Philippine National Police. Instead, internal tension is rising — fast. Rumors swirl that a high-level emergency meeting was held just hours after the audio surfaced, with discussions on whether Estomo should be forced into early retirement or suspension “for the sake of the institution.”

Even Malacañang is said to have been “alarmed” by the recording, especially with public trust in law enforcement already at historic lows.

 Netizens Explode with Outrage

Within hours, social media was ablaze with outrage, disbelief, and raw anger. Top-trending hashtags now include:

#EstomoExposed

#PNPScandal

#AtongLeaks

Some users pointed to past incidents where Estomo allegedly stalled operations against gambling dens. Others demanded the release of the full conversation, claiming what we heard might be just the beginning of a much larger admission.

One viral post read:

“If this is just one general caught, imagine who else is hiding behind the uniform. This can’t stop here.”

 Legal Storm Brewing

Lawyers and watchdog groups are now calling for an independent probe. If proven true, Estomo could face administrative charges, criminal liability, and even expulsion from the PNP.

Others are demanding Congressional hearings into the influence of gambling syndicates in the police and military — a shadow war long whispered about, but rarely exposed.

Meanwhile, Atong Ang has not made any public statement. Insiders say he’s “unbothered,” and has even doubled security around him, suggesting he knows bigger things are coming.

 What Happens Next?

This may just be the first domino to fall. Investigators reportedly now have their hands on more audio files, text exchanges, and even CCTV footage related to this scandal. If even half of it holds up in court, we may be witnessing the most explosive police corruption case in Philippine history.

Until then, the people demand answers — and they demand them now.