January 15, 2026 – Manila, Philippines. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is considering offering a P10-million reward for information leading to the arrest of businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, who is facing multiple arrest warrants in connection with the disappearance of several cockfighting enthusiasts or “sabungeros.”

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed in an interview that the agency is preparing to announce the reward to pressure Ang to surrender to authorities. “Mamaya may meeting kami at magbibigay na kami ng reward at mag-a-announce kami mamayang hapon para mabigyan ng pressure talaga na i-turn over na siya sa amin,” Remulla said in a live interview on Dobol B TV. He added, “Siguro P10 million puwede na iyon.”

Remulla explained that based on monitoring, Ang is still in the Philippines, with authorities focusing their search in Luzon. The businessman has long been linked to the controversial case of missing sabungeros, which has drawn national attention since dozens of individuals vanished after attending cockfighting events. Arrest warrants were issued against Ang and several others in late 2025, following months of investigation by the Philippine National Police and the Department of Justice.

The DILG chief stressed that the government has “very solid” evidence against Ang, describing him as “armed and dangerous.” He noted that the arrest operation must be handled carefully to ensure the safety of law enforcement officers and the public. “We are determined to bring him in. The reward is meant to encourage cooperation and to send a strong signal that we will not stop until justice is served,” Remulla said.

The case of the missing sabungeros has become one of the most high-profile criminal investigations in recent years, raising concerns about organized crime and corruption linked to the multibillion-peso cockfighting industry. Families of the victims have repeatedly appealed for justice, and the government has pledged to pursue accountability at all levels.

Ang, a well-known figure in the gaming industry, has denied involvement in the disappearances. However, authorities insist that the evidence gathered is sufficient to prosecute him and others implicated in the case. The issuance of a reward is expected to intensify the manhunt and encourage informants to come forward with credible leads.

The DILG is expected to finalize the reward announcement later today, with coordination from the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies. The move underscores the government’s commitment to resolving the case and ensuring that those responsible for the disappearance of the sabungeros are held accountable.