NBI denies Atong Ang bribe attempt

MANILA, Philippines — Fugitive businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang did not attempt to bribe the National Bureau of Investigation, the agency said yesterday as NBI agents continue to look for him in connection with the missing sabungeros case.

Acting NBI Director Angelito Magno said no one has reached out to the agency regarding any bribery attempt by Ang.

Magno said the NBI has stepped up its manhunt for Ang, who has been tagged as the alleged mastermind in the kidnapping and killing of cockfight aficionados.

The NBI is coordinating with authorities in Cambodia and Thailand to check for possible sightings of Ang, according to Magno.

“Our manhunt is continuous. We are communicating with officials, including those in embassies, to determine if there are sightings or information that he may have left the country,” Magno said.

Earlier, National Police Commission vice chairman and executive officer Rafael Calinisan announced that Ang allegedly attempted to derail the probe by offering him a bribe coursed through a “close friend.”

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla also claimed that Ang had bodyguards from the NBI.

The San Pablo Regional Trial Court (RTC) has yet to issue a warrant for Ang’s arrest over the case, Department of Justice Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon said.

The RTCs in Lipa City, Batangas and Sta. Cruz, Laguna have issued arrest orders against Ang for 25 counts of kidnapping