CIDG-NCR chief Col. John Guiagui said authorities are validating multiple leads on the possible whereabouts of fugitive businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, following a wave of tips sent to official CIDG hotlines.
Guiagui said 17 individuals have provided information, prompting intelligence units to assess the credibility of the reports and conduct verification operations.
“Mayroon nang nagbigay ng mga information at ito ay vina-validate ng aming [Intelligence] Division (Some have already given information and these are being validated by our Intelligence Division),” CIDG information chief Maj. Helen Dela Cruz said during a press briefing at Camp Crame.
Based on the tips, CIDG operatives have already searched more than 10 locations linked to Ang.
“We have searched more than 10 locations already… We have received more than 10 text messages… that we are validating,” Guiagui said.
While he did not name specific sites, Guiagui said most of the reported leads are in Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and the Bicol Region.
Authorities continue to intensify the manhunt as the government offers a PHP10-million reward for information leading to Ang’s arrest. Ang is the primary suspect in the disappearance of more than a dozen cockfight enthusiasts.
Two arrest warrants have been issued against Ang in Laguna and Batangas for kidnapping, kidnapping with homicide, and serious illegal detention. The CIDG has also released his wanted poster to the public.
Dela Cruz, citing the Bureau of Immigration, said Ang remains in the Philippines, contradicting claims by whistleblower Julie Patidongan that he has already left the country.
Meanwhile, Firearms and Explosives Office chief Brig. Gen. Jose Manalad said the licenses to own and possess firearms of Ang’s four co-accused—Rogelio Borican Jr., Rodelo Anig-ig, Jezrel Mahilum, and Emmanuel Falle—have been revoked. Ang’s own firearms license was cancelled last Wednesday.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered an investigation into allegations that some police officers may be providing protection to Ang.
“Based on the information we received, there may be police officers helping him,” Tuaño said, adding that criminal and administrative charges may be filed.
Tuaño added that the PNP is also probing four retired police generals earlier flagged by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla for alleged links to Ang, though their identities have not been made public.