INTERIOR and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed on Friday that Atong Ang, one of the primary suspects in the case of the missing cockfighting enthusiasts, was sighted in Cavite just last month.
Speaking during the Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel forum, Remulla stated unequivocally that Ang remains within the country. “He’s here in the Philippines, for sure. Last sighting of him was in Cavite one month ago,” the secretary disclosed, dispelling speculations that the accused may have fled abroad.
Authorities moved swiftly on the information, deploying around 300 personnel from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to conduct an arrest operation. Despite the quick response, the team arrived to find that Ang had already managed to leave the area.
Remulla emphasized the speed of the law enforcement action, noting that they were close to apprehending the fugitive. “When we arrived, he had already left. We acted very fast, as fast as we could,” he said, adding, “In fact, the food was still there when we arrived… We almost got him.”
Ang and several others face arrest warrants for multiple counts of kidnapping with homicide and kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the high-profile disappearance of numerous sabungeros over the past years.
Remulla’s revelation underscores the continuing challenge of locating and apprehending the suspect, even as authorities receive reliable leads and mobilize significant manpower. The DILG and the Philippine National Police remain committed to tracking Ang down and serving the warrants to ensure he faces trial for the serious charges against him.
