Fugitive gambling lord Charlie “Atong” Ang had prepared himself long before a warrant of arrest was issued against him.

Philippine National Police–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR) chief P/Col. John Guiagui said this preparation is one of the reasons authorities are encountering difficulty in locating Ang, aside from his vast resources and extensive network across the country.

In a radio interview on Tuesday, Guiagui said Ang had anticipated the issuance of a warrant and had taken steps in advance. With access to significant resources, a wide circle of associates, and properties nationwide, tracking him has been challenging.

Guiagui, however, stressed that these factors have not hindered law enforcement efforts, which remain continuous.

He added that authorities believe Ang has been moving from one location to another to evade arrest but remains within the country.

No indication of flight

“There is no record indicating that he has left the Philippines, so we believe he is still here. That is why our efforts are massive, and we are exerting all means to apprehend him,” Guiagui said, adding that police continue to act on validated tips and information received through their hotline.

Earlier, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) requested the cancellation of Ang’s passport, noting that he had not left the country.

Ang has since been named the DILG’s most wanted individual, with a P10 million reward offered for information leading to his arrest.

Nobody in resort

Personnel of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) were seen entering a private resort at Sitio Caarosipan, Barangay San Miguel, San Antonio, Zambales, on 20 January 2026, but did not find their quarry.

The NBI personnel from the National Capital Region and Olongapo City served a warrant of arrest against the owner, Ang.

According to witnesses, the caretaker allowed only five personnel to enter the premises.