The Philippines National Police (PNP) is investigating potential links between gambling tycoon Charlie ‘Atong’ Ang and an alleged illegal online cockfighting (e-sabong) operation uncovered in Tondo, Manila.
According to PNP officials, the probe has expanded to include a separate e-sabong operation in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, which authorities raided last week. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla earlier indicated that Ang may be connected to both operations.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the Talisay case forms part of a broader investigation that also covers the March 24th raid in Tondo. The earlier operation targeted a suspected e-sabong hub at the Coliseo de Manila, where authorities arrested 28 alleged operators and 136 bettors. Legal counsel for the venue denied any links between the coliseum and Ang.
In the Talisay raid, authorities detained 30 individuals, with three suspects still at large, according to Criminal Investigation and Detection Group spokesperson Maj. Helen dela Cruz. Remulla has also alleged that Ang and a former regional CIDG official, Maj. Edgar Tonico Jr., may be tied not only to the e-sabong operations but also to an illegal cigarette manufacturing network operating in Bacolod City and Bago City.
Authorities reported that the illicit manufacturing facility, uncovered earlier in the week, yielded nearly PHP800 million ($13.6 million) worth of contraband and equipment. Ten Chinese nationals were arrested in connection with the operation, while two additional suspects remain at large.
