Manila:President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. continues to trust Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla despite the failure to apprehend several high-profile fugitives, Malacañang said Wednesday. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed there was no indication that Remulla had lost the President's trust and confidence.
According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla stated that fugitive businessman Charlie 'Atong' Ang had reportedly left the country through a backdoor route. Ang faces multiple arrest warrants related to the disappearance of several cockfighting enthusiasts or "sabungeros."
Castro noted that the Palace has yet to discuss Ang's reported departure with President Marcos and emphasized that authorities must investigate possible lapses before determining accountability. She remarked, "Those who have the mandate to act must do their jobs. If there were any lapses, the President must be informed."
Other high-profile individuals yet to be arrested include former Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co, former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, and Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa. Co faces graft-related charges linked to alleged anomalous flood-control projects and is reportedly seeking political asylum in France. Roque is involved in a qualified human trafficking case related to an illegal Philippine offshore gaming operator hub, with an arrest warrant issued against him in May 2025. Meanwhile, Dela Rosa remains at large under an International Criminal Court arrest warrant concerning alleged crimes against humanity linked to anti-drug campaign killings during the previous administration.
