Arrest order vs. Atong Ang, 17 others issued for missing ‘sabungeros’ case

Metro Manila, Philippines – A Laguna trial court has issued an arrest warrant against businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and 17 others for kidnapping with homicide in relation to the missing “sabungeros” or cockfighting enthusiasts case.

According to the court document dated Jan. 13, Regional Trial Court Branch 26 in Sta. Cruz, Laguna found probable cause to order the arrest of the 18 accused. 

The court charged the accused of kidnapping with homicide, a non-bailable crime under the law. 

Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Jose Melencio Nartatez confirmed in a Palace presser that the warrant has been issued. 

“Nag-coordinate po ang ating police doon sa concerned branch (Our police are coordinating with the concerned branch),” Nartatez said on Wednesday, Jan. 14. 

The police chief said that 11 of the accused are already in PNP’s restrictive custody. 

“They are now being directed to surrender to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group. And for the others, the dedicated PNP are now on their way to implement the warrant of arrest,” Nartatez added. 

Among those accused have listed addresses spanning parts of Muntinlupa City, Laguna, and Batangas. On Ang’s location, Nartatez said authorities will serve the warrant on his address listed in Pasig City. 

The Laguna RTC has also directed authorities to strictly follow the rules on body-worn cameras during the execution of the warrant. This requires the PNP to have at least one body camera and an alternative recording device to document the arrest process.

Meanwhile, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) has already been issued to notify authorities of any attempt of the accused to exit the country. 

“Following the issuance today of the arrest warrant by RTC Sta. Cruz, the prosecution shall forthwith move for the issuance of a Hold Departure Order with the court and ensure that all the accused stand trial,” the DOJ said.

In December 2025, the DOJ filed formal charges against Ang before several regional trial courts over the disappearance of several “sabungeros” or cockfight enthusiasts who have been missing since 2022.