by: Angelica Arquero
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has offered a 10 million pesos reward to anyone who can provide information leading to the arrest of businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, who is now considered the country’s top most wanted suspect in the case of the missing cockfighting enthusiasts, or “sabungeros.”
The reward offer came after arrest warrants were issued against Ang and 17 other individuals for their alleged involvement in the kidnapping and killing of several sabungeros.
Of the 18 suspects, 17 are already in custody, leaving Ang as the only one still at large.
For the families of the victims, the development brings renewed hope for justice.
Francisca de Luna Ramos, whose son is among the youngest victims in the case, said she has been seeking justice for more than four years since her child went missing.
“It is very painful for a mother. No parent would abandon their child,” Ramos said.
The arrest warrants were issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 26 in Sta. Cruz, Laguna, covering multiple counts of kidnapping with homicide, as well as kidnapping and serious illegal detention.
Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said authorities are coordinating closely with the court and that several suspects are currently under restricted custody.
CIDG Director Brig. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico said Ang is now the subject of a nationwide manhunt.
“He was nowhere to be found in the areas we searched. Operations are still ongoing to locate him,” Morico said.
Whistleblower Julie Patidongan earlier identified Ang as the alleged mastermind behind the disappearance of the sabungeros.
Because of his continued absence, authorities have officially classified Ang as a fugitive.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Ang is now considered the number one most wanted person in the country and warned that he is armed and dangerous.
“He is accused of killing about 100 missing sabungeros,” Remulla said.
More than 300,000 police officers have been mobilized nationwide to help locate and arrest Ang.
The DILG said any person who can provide information leading to his arrest will receive the 10 million pesos reward.
Authorities believe Ang is still in the Philippines and has not left the country.
