PNP orders tight watch vs. Atong Ang

By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan, Philippine News Agency

WANTED BY LAW. Businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang (center) files a complaint against two former employees who tagged him in the case of missing cockfight enthusiasts before the Mandaluyong City Prosecutor’s Office on July 3, 2025. A manhunt operation has been launched against Ang after a Laguna court ordered his arrest. (Photo: PNA/Facebook)

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed all exit ports under heightened monitoring to prevent businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang from leaving the country after an arrest warrant was issued against him.

In a statement on Thursday, acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said he ordered intensified coordination with immigration authorities as part of the manhunt for Ang.

He said tracker teams and intelligence units have been activated to enforce the arrest warrant issued by the Sta. Cruz, Laguna Regional Trial Court Branch 26 in connection with the case of missing cockfight enthusiasts.

“The most logical option for him is to surrender because the PNP is determined to implement the court’s arrest warrant,” Nartatez said.

The court ordered the arrest of 18 individuals: 10 police officers, one dismissed police officer and eight civilians, including Ang.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), which is leading the manhunt, said all suspects except Ang are already in police custody.

“If he is truly innocent, as he claims, he should surrender and face the accusations against him,” Nartatez said.

Bounty eyed

Meanwhile, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the government is considering offering a PHP10-million reward for information leading to Ang’s arrest.

Remulla said Ang’s wealth and resources could allow him to hide, possibly on a remote island or in a mountainous area.

He also said police are exercising caution, noting that Ang is considered dangerous and is reportedly protected by at least 20 armed bodyguards.

Remulla urged Ang to surrender and face the charges in court.

“Mahirap labanan ang gobyerno ng Pilipinas, mahahanap at mahahanap ka (It is hard to fight the Philippine government; you will be found),” he said.