Businessman Atong Ang, accused in the case of missing sabungeros, was spotted in Calabarzon two weeks ago but managed to evade arrest, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed Thursday.
“Atong Ang has a Red Notice. He was spotted in Region 4-A two weeks ago. Nakita siya. We had follow-up operations. We missed him by a day,” Remulla said in an interview.
Authorities believe Ang remains in the Philippines, noting there are no confirmed records of his departure.
Remulla explained that Ang frequently changes hideouts every three to five days to avoid capture, traveling with only a small group.
“Apparently, he travels in a small group. Parang tatlo lang sila. Tapos palipat-lipat siya ng bahay every three days, four days, five days. Lipat na siya nang lipat all around the Philippines,” he added.
Earlier reports suggested Ang may have been seen in Vietnam, but Remulla clarified that such intelligence remains unverified.
Warrants of arrest have been issued against Ang and others in connection with multiple counts of kidnapping with homicide and serious illegal detention tied to the disappearance of several sabungeros. Ang has denied the allegations.
Philippine authorities previously requested the issuance of a Red Notice from Interpol, which serves as a global alert for law enforcement agencies to locate and provisionally arrest a suspect pending extradition or similar legal action. Enforcement, however, depends on each country’s discretion.
A ₱20 million reward has been offered for information leading to Ang’s arrest.