PNP Intensifies Hunt for Atong Ang

The Philippine National Police said it is ramping up efforts to locate gambling tycoon Charlie “Atong” Ang, who remains at large following the issuance of arrest warrants over the killing of more than 100 cockfight enthusiasts.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. confirmed that multiple police teams have been deployed nationwide to track Ang’s whereabouts.

“We have several manhunt teams and other units exerting effort. We have checked his addresses. So far, the results have been negative,” Nartatez said during a press briefing at Camp Crame.

According to the PNP, nearly 20 properties linked to Ang have been searched, with some locations visited multiple times. Authorities have also monitored his close associates and pursued leads suggesting he may have moved between islands across the country, though these efforts have not yielded positive results.

Police are also coordinating with international counterparts amid concerns that Ang may have attempted to leave the country using a different identity.

“But based on our indicators, the fugitive is still here,” Nartatez added.

The intensified campaign is part of a broader crackdown targeting high-profile fugitives. The PNP chief said operations are also ongoing against other wanted individuals, including former Bureau of Corrections chief Gerald Bantag, former lawmaker Zaldy Co, and three members of Sunwest.

Ang has reportedly gone into hiding after regional trial courts in Laguna and Batangas issued warrants for his arrest in connection with the alleged murders tied to the missing sabungeros case.