MANILA, Philippines — Fugitive businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang may be hiding in the Philippines, a whistleblower and relatives of missing cockfighting enthusiasts or “sabungeros” said Monday, calling on him to surrender and face justice. Whistleblower Julie "Dondon" Patidongan, who claimed to have worked closely with Ang for years, said the businessman has the resources and connections to evade authorities, including the possible use of properties not registered under his name and multiple passports. “If he is still in the Philippines, he could be hiding in exclusive subdivisions known to his children but not under his name,” Patidongan said. “If he is abroad, his international connections can protect and handle him.” Patidongan made the comments after the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied reports that Ang was hiding in Cambodia, saying there was no record of his presence in the country. Patidongan called on Ang to surrender, emphasizing the plight of the missing victims’ families. “These are poor people who were just trying to earn a living. Because of money, they were killed,” he said. “He should face the accusations if he claims he has no wrongdoing.” Relatives of the missing sabungeros echoed the plea for justice. Cha Lasco, whose two relatives — 14-year-old Mason Ramos and 17-year-old John Paul Ramos — disappeared in December 2020, said the families remain hopeful as authorities, including Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla and Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, pursue the case. “They were told they would just watch over the roosters. They never came back,” Lasco said. “Even if they are no longer alive, we just want to find them and bring closure.” Patidongan remained optimistic that authorities would eventually locate Ang. “Sooner or later, he will be caught, unless he keeps waiting for a new administration,” he said. “But this case should not wait. The families have suffered long enough.”