MANILA, Philippines — Gambling tycoon Charlie “Atong” Ang narrowly evaded capture in the Calabarzon region recently, according to Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla.
In a television interview on Thursday, April 16, 2026, Remulla revealed that the fugitive tycoon—wanted for his alleged role in the high-profile disappearance and killing of 34 “sabungeros” (cockfighting aficionados)—has been moving frequently to stay ahead of law enforcement.
Following a tip from a “credible” informant, authorities launched a series of follow-up operations in Southern Tagalog:
- Evasive Tactics: Remulla described Ang’s movement as highly disciplined. “He travels in a small group of just three people and moves every three to five days,” the Secretary explained.
- A Narrow Miss: Police operations in Calabarzon reportedly missed the tycoon by just a single day.
- The Informant: While the DILG has kept the exact locations confidential for security reasons, they confirmed that the sightings in Region 4A were confirmed by reliable intelligence sources.
Atong Ang is currently the sole accused at large in one of the country’s most notorious criminal cases:
- The Charges: He faces kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges linked to the abduction of dozens of individuals who allegedly cheated in online cockfighting games (e-sabong) across Luzon between 2021 and 2022.
- Status of Co-Accused: In January 2026, twenty of Ang’s co-accused were taken into police custody following warrants issued by courts in Laguna and Batangas.
- International Pressure: The DILG recently confirmed that an Interpol Red Notice has been issued for Ang, effectively signaling that his capture is now a priority for both domestic and international agencies.
As Secretary Remulla intensifies the national crackdown on high-profile fugitives, the sighting in Calabarzon suggests that Ang remains within Philippine borders, despite previous rumors of flight.
The DILG has urged the public to remain vigilant but cautioned against approaching the suspect. “The net is tightening,” Remulla concluded. With the recent capture of other major fugitives, including Zaldy Co in Prague, the administration is signaling that no individual—regardless of wealth or influence—is beyond the reach of the law.