The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has doubled the bounty for information leading to the arrest of gaming tycoon Charlie “Atong” Ang, increasing it from P10 million to P20 million.
Bounty Increased to P20 Million
DILG chief Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla announced the increased bounty on Thursday, February 12, stating, “We are increasing the bounty for Atong Ang…to P20 million for information leading to his arrest.” Remulla clarified that the funds for the bounty are sourced from confidential funds allocated to both the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the DILG.
The initial P10-million bounty was announced in January, following accusations against Ang related to the kidnapping with homicide and kidnapping with serious illegal detention cases surrounding the disappearance of sabungeros. Last month, Ang was identified as the “most wanted criminal in the country,” triggering a nationwide manhunt led by the interior department and the PNP.
Remulla stated on Thursday that Ang remains within the Philippines, dismissing reports of his presence in Cambodia. He noted that the Cambodian government has no record of Ang’s entry or exit.
New Technologies in the Manhunt
The Philippine government intends to deploy drones equipped with lidar sensors to aid in tracking fugitives. According to Remulla, these drones will be used in “more intensive manhunt operations” targeting not only Atong Ang but also Gerald Bantag, a suspect in the Percy Lapid case, and individuals facing indictments in a flood control scandal.
Ang’s initial involvement in the missing sabungeros case dates back to 2022, as he owns Lucky 8 Star Quest, the operator of the cockfighting arenas where many of the missing individuals were last seen. In 2025, further accusations arose when Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, a former employee and whistleblower, identified Ang as the alleged mastermind behind the disappearances.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the initial bounty for Atong Ang announced?
The initial P10-million bounty was announced in January.
Where is the funding for the bounty coming from?
The P20 million bounty is funded by confidential funds provided to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
What charges does Atong Ang face?
Atong Ang faces kidnapping with homicide and kidnapping with serious illegal detention cases related to the disappearance of sabungeros.
As the manhunt continues, will the increased bounty and new technologies prove effective in locating Atong Ang and bringing him to justice?
