Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed that businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, who is wanted in connection with cases involving missing cockfighting enthusiasts, has left the Philippines.
In an interview, Remulla said Ang allegedly used a backdoor exit, or an unauthorized route, to leave the country. He did not disclose when or how the businessman reportedly departed.
The Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies have been pursuing Ang for months following arrest warrants issued by courts in Laguna and Batangas.
The cases include kidnapping, serious illegal detention and homicide, linked to the disappearance of at least 34 cockfighting enthusiasts between 2021 and 2022. Ang has been identified as an alleged mastermind in connection with the disappearances.
Remulla also said Ang may have access to as much as $3 billion, which could have been converted into cryptocurrency. The secretary suggested that such resources could give the businessman substantial means to finance his continued flight from authorities.
The latest statement follows earlier uncertainty over Ang’s whereabouts. In July, the National Bureau of Investigation said it had no confirmation that the businessman had left the country.
Cambodia also denied in February that Ang was in the country.
Remulla’s confirmation provides a new development in the search for Ang, who remains wanted in connection with the cases involving the missing cockfighting enthusiasts.
However, the secretary did not provide details about Ang’s alleged route out of the Philippines or identify his current location.
The allegations against Ang remain tied to ongoing legal proceedings and warrants issued by courts in Laguna and Batangas.
