Interior Secretary confirms businessman Charlie "Atong" Ang left Philippines through backdoor

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed that Charlie “Atong” Ang, a businessman linked to the disappearance of several sabungeros, has left the Philippines. Remulla said Ang escaped by passing through a backdoor. Ang is charged with kidnapping with homicide, as well as kidnapping and serious illegal detention in courts in Sta. Cruz, Laguna; Lipa, Batangas; and San Pablo, Laguna. He has not been seen since January 2026. Earlier, the Philippine National Police said it was still checking reports of his escape. Remulla’s briefing provided the first official acknowledgment of Ang’s departure.