Gambling tycoon Atong Ang may now be in Vietnam, according to Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, citing the latest intelligence gathered by authorities.
In an interview, Remulla said information received by the government indicates that Ang may have already left the Philippines and could currently be staying in Vietnam.
Authorities are now coordinating with their counterparts in Vietnam to verify immigration records in that country.
Remulla said the Philippines maintains an extradition treaty with Vietnam, which could be used if Ang is confirmed to be in the foreign jurisdiction.
Investigators are also examining the possibility that Ang may have left the country through what officials described as a “backdoor exit,” noting that there is no official record of his departure in Philippine immigration data.
The search for Ang has been ongoing for several months.
According to earlier reports released in January by the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, more than 14 locations across the country were searched as part of efforts to locate the businessman.
In February, authorities in Cambodia denied reports that Ang was present in their country.
Multiple courts have previously issued arrest warrants against Ang in connection with the case involving missing sabungeros.
The warrants were issued by courts in San Pablo and Sta. Cruz in Laguna, as well as in Lipa, Batangas.
Authorities continue to gather intelligence and coordinate with foreign agencies while verifying Ang’s possible whereabouts.
