The Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a stern warning to the public, including friends and associates of fugitive businessman Charlie "Atong" Ang, against providing him with any form of shelter or assistance. Authorities stated that anyone who aids him could face criminal liability.
Nationwide Manhunt for Most Wanted Fugitive
Acting PNP chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., emphasized the seriousness of the manhunt during a press conference in Quezon City on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The following day, Friday, January 16, the PNP formalized its public warning. Ang is the central figure in the kidnapping and disappearance of more than a dozen cockfighting enthusiasts.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has officially labeled Ang as the "most wanted criminal in the country." In response, the PNP has mobilized approximately 320,000 police personnel across the archipelago to locate him. Police tracker and intelligence teams have expanded their monitoring to include potential backdoor exits to prevent him from fleeing the Philippines.
Resources and International Coordination
Nartatez acknowledged that Ang is expected to use his considerable wealth and network to avoid capture. "We expect him to use his huge reserve of resources to avoid being caught," Nartatez said. "But I advise him to use that instead to defend himself in court rather than playing hide and seek with us because he will be arrested eventually."
To tighten the net, the PNP is coordinating with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to expand the search internationally, in case Ang has already left the country. Additionally, the PNP has revoked all of Ang's gun permits following the issuance of an arrest warrant against him.
PHP10-Million Reward and Call for Truthful Information
A substantial PHP10-million reward is being offered for any information that leads to Ang's capture. Nartatez also cautioned the public against sharing false information that could obstruct the ongoing operations. "Let us work together to bring him to court to face the serious accusations against him," he urged.
The PNP's message is clear: cooperation from the public is essential, but aiding the fugitive or spreading misinformation will not be tolerated. The massive law enforcement operation continues with the goal of apprehending the country's most wanted man.
