Who is Atong Ang?

Businessman Atong Ang, whose real name is Charlie Tiu Hay Ang, is a prominent yet controversial figure in the Philippine gambling industry.

Over the years, his name has surfaced repeatedly in high-profile cases linked to illegal gambling and, more recently, to the disappearance of cockfighting enthusiasts, commonly referred to as sabungeros.

Link to 'missing sabungeros'

Ang is among those named in a warrant of arrest issued by a Regional Trial Court in Sta. Cruz, Laguna, for kidnapping with homicide in connection with the case of the missing sabungeros.

Prior to the issuance of the warrant, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said it found prima facie evidence to indict Ang and several others over the disappearance of cockfighting enthusiasts who were reported missing between 2021 and 2022.

Many of the victims were last seen after attending cockfighting matches or related events in various parts of Luzon.

The DOJ later filed formal charges against Ang, accusing him and his co-respondents of involvement in the alleged abduction and killing of the missing sabungeros.

Authorities have said the cases stem from a consolidated investigation involving multiple disappearances allegedly linked to organized gambling operations.

Gambling background, public profile

Ang is widely known for his deep involvement in the cockfighting industry, including operating or backing major sabong arenas and online betting platforms.

His influence in the sector drew national attention when then-President Rodrigo Duterte publicly disclosed that he had consulted Ang on efforts to curb illegal gambling—remarks that triggered criticism from lawmakers and civil society groups, who questioned Ang’s proximity to power despite controversies surrounding his business interests.

Ang has been publicly associated with both traditional sabong operations and online sabong platforms, which surged in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The online betting operations were later suspended and eventually banned by the government amid concerns over unregulated gambling and public safety.

Murder complaint, Gretchen Barretto

In August 2025, the families of the missing sabungeros filed a separate murder complaint against Ang, actress Gretchen Barretto, and several others. The complaint alleged serious illegal detention and multiple murder in connection with the disappearances.

The families said the filing was part of their long-running effort to hold accountable those they believe were involved in the disappearance and presumed deaths of their relatives.

Ang and Barretto have publicly acknowledged that they are business partners in the cockfighting industry, a fact cited by complainants to establish alleged links among the respondents. However, both have strongly denied any criminal wrongdoing.

During DOJ proceedings, Barretto’s legal counsel described the accusations against her as “unsubstantiated.” Barretto personally filed her counter-affidavit before the DOJ during the preliminary investigation.

Denials, legal stance

Ang has consistently denied any involvement in illegal activities, including the allegations related to the missing sabungeros. His camp has repeatedly maintained that the accusations are baseless and politically or financially motivated, stressing that he intends to confront the charges through proper legal channels.

Following the issuance of the arrest warrant, Ang’s lawyer said his client is seeking time to review the case records before issuing a detailed response, even as he emphasized that Ang will pursue all available legal remedies.—MCG, GMA Integrated News