The Philippine government has increased the reward for information leading to the arrest of fugitive businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, raising it from P10 million to P20 million as authorities intensify efforts to track his whereabouts. The announcement was made on Thursday as law enforcement agencies continue their nationwide manhunt for the controversial figure.
According to Jonvic Remulla, Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the additional bounty aims to encourage the public to provide credible information that could lead to Ang’s arrest. Remulla explained that the increased reward highlights the government’s determination to locate the fugitive and ensure he faces the charges filed against him.
Remulla also disclosed that the funds for the bounty were sourced from confidential funds allocated to both the Philippine National Police and the Department of the Interior and Local Government. These funds are typically reserved for sensitive operations, intelligence gathering, and high-priority cases that require immediate and decisive action.
Authorities have been closely monitoring reports that Ang may have already fled the country. Some intelligence information suggests that he could be in Cambodia. However, Remulla emphasized that law enforcement agencies still believe there is a strong possibility that Ang remains somewhere within the Philippines. He noted that such claims about foreign travel are still being verified and should not weaken ongoing search operations.
The government has urged citizens to cooperate and report any information that could help locate Ang. Officials assured the public that informants would be given full protection and confidentiality. The increased bounty is also expected to attract new leads that may assist investigators in narrowing down Ang’s possible locations.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to Ang’s long-standing reputation as a high-profile businessman and his alleged involvement in various legal controversies. Authorities stressed that no individual is above the law and that efforts to capture Ang will continue until he is brought into custody.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police has reportedly intensified surveillance and coordination with local and international law enforcement agencies. Officials remain confident that with public support and strengthened intelligence efforts, the fugitive businessman will eventually be located and arrested.
The government reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order, assuring the public that all available resources are being utilized to ensure justice is served in this high-profile case.