Government Doubles Bounty for Fugitive Gaming Tycoon to P20 Million
In a significant escalation of efforts to capture a high-profile fugitive, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced on Thursday, February 12, 2026, that the bounty for information leading to the arrest of businessman and gaming tycoon Charlie "Atong" Ang has been increased to P20 million. This marks a substantial doubling from the previous reward of P10 million.
Funding and Justification for the Increased Reward
During a press conference, Secretary Remulla detailed that the enhanced bounty will be sourced from the confidential funds of both the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). He emphasized the gravity of Ang's alleged crimes, stating that justice must prevail regardless of an individual's wealth or influence.
"If you killed a hundred people and have billions of pesos hidden away, and you think you're not accountable under the law, your day will come—you will have to face what you've done," Remulla declared, underscoring the government's determination to hold Ang accountable.
He further elaborated on the rationale behind the bounty increase, pointing to the scale of Ang's alleged offenses. "He has so much money, he has killed so many, and he has earned so much—surely, this is in the interest of justice. If those who steal lotion are jailed for six months, and this person earned billions and killed hundreds, then he should be held accountable. Just because he has money doesn't mean he can get away with it," Remulla added, highlighting the disparity in consequences for different crimes.
Current Whereabouts and Legal Charges
Addressing speculation about Ang's location, Remulla revealed that Cambodian authorities have reported the fugitive is not in their country. "We really believe he's still here," the Secretary asserted, indicating a strong belief that Ang remains within Philippine borders, necessitating heightened local efforts for his capture.
Charlie "Atong" Ang faces three standing arrest warrants related to cases of kidnapping with homicide. These charges are connected to the disappearances of 34 sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts) that occurred between 2021 and 2022. The cases have drawn significant public attention due to their violent nature and the number of victims involved.
In a related development, all 20 of Ang's co-accused individuals, which include both dismissed and active policemen, have already been arrested. This progress in the broader investigation underscores the ongoing legal proceedings, with Ang remaining the primary target at large.
The increased bounty aims to incentivize public cooperation and provide crucial leads that could finally bring the fugitive tycoon to justice, addressing long-standing concerns over impunity and accountability in high-profile criminal cases.
