Cassandra Ong has asked lawmakers to allow her friend in detention due to a severe mental breakdown, as they investigate her ties to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO). Cassandra Ong has asked a congressional committee investigating her alleged ties with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) to “allow her friend and stay with her” at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong. “She is requesting to allow her friend to stay with her at the CIW. The basis of this is she is suffering from severe mental breakdown and anxiety attacks, and currently in a state of severe depression,” Abang Lingkod party-list Rep. Joseph Paduano said at the tail-end of the House quad committee’s 15-hour hearing, as quoted by the Inquirer. Antipolo Second District Representative Romeo Acop emphasized that it was appropriate to consult with CIW authorities regarding Ong’s request. However, Surigao del Sur Second District Representative Johnny Ty Pimentel pointed out that the decision ultimately rests with the House. “The basis of this is she is suffering from severe mental breakdown and anxiety attacks, and currently in a state of severe depression,” Rep. Paduano was quoted as saying in an ABS-CBN report. “I presume it is a lady and the word being used is her friend,” he added. House Quad Committee chair and Surigao del Norte Second District Representative Robert Ace Barbers added that the committee would review Ong’s request. “It is appropriate for us to discuss the matter with CIW personnel regarding Ms. Cassie Ong’s request, given her current stress and her need for a companion within the facility. If the CIW personnel and the committee agree, the request could be accommodated,” said Barbers. This request comes as Ong faces legal challenges related to her role as an authorized representative of Lucky South 99, a POGO entity. On September 19, she faced a second contempt charge for allegedly providing dishonest testimony during legal proceedings. This citation for contempt adds to the legal pressures surrounding Ong as the investigation into POGOs continues. Lucky South 99 Outsourcing Inc. was originally incorporated in 2019 with a focus on business process outsourcing and real estate. However, on February 7, 2024, the company changed its corporate name to Lucky South 99 Corp, according to ABS-CBN News, shifting its primary purpose to gaming, entertainment, and live gaming streaming, with a secondary purpose involving the development of a hotel with internet shops and gaming facilities.  Despite these changes, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) revealed that Lucky South 99 Corp. had been included on the list of Offshore Gaming Licensees by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) as early as August 8, 2023. In June 2024, a raid was conducted at Lucky South 99’s facility in Porac, Pampanga, following reports of illegal activities. Authorities discovered cash, jewelry, and suspected illegal drugs during the raid. Among the seized items were P600,000 in cash, assorted jewelry, and 10 sachets of suspected shabu. Although the company was registered, the SEC stated that Lucky South 99 Corp. was not authorized to operate as a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO). The SEC ruled that any such activities were ultra vires (beyond its legal powers), and the company had misrepresented its authority, leading to serious legal repercussions. Ong’s involvement has raised questions about the extent of her influence in facilitating the operations of such gambling entities.  Despite her ongoing legal battles, including contempt charges for allegedly withholding evidence, she continues to be a focal point in the investigation into the POGO industry’s regulation. As authorities probe deeper into her ties with Lucky South 99, Ong’s legal team has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that she acted within the bounds of the law. POGOs have faced scrutiny for alleged illegal activities and links to organized crime, making the investigation a critical focus. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has also been firm on removing POGOs - legal or not - by the end of this year. As the inquiry progresses, Ong’s request for a companion during her detention highlights the intersection of legal proceedings and personal well-being, a factor that lawmakers are taking into consideration.

Alice Guo, the dismissed mayor accused of influencing POGO permits, pleaded not guilty to graft charges in court on November 8, 2024. Alice Guo has pleaded not guilty to graft cases filed against her by a Valenzuela Regional Trial Court (RTC). The dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor entered her not guilty plea on November 8, 2024. Her next hearing is scheduled on November 22 for presentation of evidence. Valenzuela Regional Branch 285 Clerk of Court, Atty. Pascual Lacas Jr., confirmed that Alice Guo entered a not guilty plea to charges of violating Republic Act 3019 via videoconference. “Alice Guo pleaded not guilty to both cases filed against her… these cases are related to the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act,” he stated in an interview with GMA Network. The interior department filed the case last September, accusing Guo of using her position as mayor to grant a permit to an illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Bamban, Tarlac. Prosecution claims that her actions violated the Philippine Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, a law aimed at preventing corruption in public office. Aside from the questions towards her citizenship, reports also linked Alice Guo to illegal operations in Tarlac, particularly from Zun Yuan Technology Incorporated, whose operations were first unveiled after a Vietnamese national attempted to escape the Baofu compound.  The case of Alice Guo has sparked significant attention due to its connection to the controversial POGO industry in the Philippines, which has been linked to organized crime, human trafficking, and illegal gambling activities. Despite the charges, Guo maintains that her actions were lawful, and her legal team is defending her against the graft allegations, arguing that her interactions with government officials were legitimate and conducted transparently. Despite her plea, the case remains a significant example of the scrutiny surrounding POGOs in the Philippines, particularly concerning the role of local officials in facilitating the operations of these companies. The legal proceedings have faced several delays. Her arraignment, originally scheduled for earlier in September 2024, was postponed due to procedural issues and scheduling conflicts. Despite the rescheduling, Guo was able to post bail in the amount of P540,000 (USD$9500), allowing her temporary freedom while awaiting trial. Alice Guo, believed to be Guo Hua Ping, faces multiple legal issues such as qualified human trafficking in Pasig, while separate petitions have been filed to challenge her citizenship and cancel her birth certificate in Manila and Tarlac courts, respectively. Additionally, she faces a tax evasion complaint and 87 counts of money laundering with the Department of Justice. The Wider Picture of Alice Guo and POGOs While the Philippine government, through the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), has implemented a regulatory framework for POGOs, there are concerns about the industry’s oversight and regulation. Critics argue that the rapid growth of POGOs has outpaced regulatory measures, leading to potential risks for the public and the nation’s international reputation. The outcome of Guo’s case could have far-reaching consequences for the POGO industry, particularly in terms of how local officials and the government approach its regulation in the future. On the other hand, officials may have the authority to grant business permits, which is where issues of influence and accountability can arise. The charges against Guo suggest that some local leaders may have been complicit in the rapid expansion of the POGO industry, which raises concerns about potential abuse of power. Guo’s legal team has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that she acted in accordance with the law. However, her case serves as a reminder of the challenges in holding public officials accountable, especially when dealing with industries that have the potential to operate in a legal grey area.

Kominfo staff members in Indonesia were held for allegedly allowing illegal online gambling sites. Authorities raised concerns over misuse of power . Several staff members of the Indonesia Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (Kominfo) have been detained for allegedly allowing illegal online gambling sites to operate. Authorities announced this on November 4, 2024, highlighting serious concerns over misuse of power within the ministry tasked with regulating online content and protecting the public from illicit digital activities. Indonesia maintains strict anti-gambling laws, prohibiting nearly all forms of gambling, including online platforms. Yet, with rising internet connectivity, gambling sites from abroad have found ways to reach Indonesian audiences. Despite government efforts to block such sites, a hidden network of ministry insiders allegedly exploited their positions to prevent the removal of these illegal platforms. Their actions enabled these gambling sites to continue targeting Indonesian users, undermining the ministry’s regulatory role. “A total of 11 employees of the ministry were deactivated after police arrests for alleged violations. Other individuals who may be involved are still under verification, pending further coordination between the Directorate General of Informatics Application at the Ministry of Communication and Digital and the Indonesian National Police. This verification will ensure clarity regarding the identities of the detained employees,” Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid said in a statement, as reported by Indonesia Business Post. Reports reveal that these ministry employees manipulated the system to delay or bypass the government’s website-blocking protocols, effectively protecting certain gambling operators. Their involvement marks a severe breach of public trust and complicates efforts to enforce Indonesia’s strict gambling regulations. In response, the Indonesian government has ramped up its investigations, detaining involved employees and pledging to tighten internal controls within Kominfo. These measures include stronger oversight, revamped protocols for website blocking, and enhanced monitoring of ministry operations to prevent future misconduct. In his statement issued November 6, President Prabowo Subianto vowed zero tolerance for officials or security personnel aiding online gambling operators. Reiterating strict anti-gambling policies, Prabowo committed to continuing former President Joko Widodo’s directive to eliminate all gambling sites in Indonesia. “[The president] said law enforcement agencies such as the National Police, the Attorney General’s Office, the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs, and all state agencies must work hand-in-hand in combating online gambling. Nobody should provide the backing to online gambling,” said Communication Minister Meutya Hafid, as reported by JakartaGlobe.

The NBI has uncovered key evidence in its investigation into illegal POGO activities at the Tourist Garden Hotel in Lapu-Lapu City. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has uncovered crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation into alleged Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) activities at the Tourist Garden Hotel in Lapu-Lapu City. On November 5, 2024, NBI agents seized P400,000 in cash and various documents from seven vaults recovered from the office of arrested Chinese national Shouqi Zhao. These items are expected to reinforce both the anti-money laundering case and the human trafficking charges against 17 individuals linked to Zhao’s operations. NBI Cebu District Office agent-in-charge, Arnel Pura, confirmed that the seized documents include lease contracts, accounting books, and transaction ledgers, all of which could serve as key evidence in proving the criminal operations tied to Zhao’s group. These findings follow a previous discovery of P8.2 million in cash smuggled by a hotel employee, solidifying the case against those involved in illegal POGO operations and human trafficking. “There are many documents. We can’t go through them all individually, but most of them are related to business ownership, lease contracts for the compound, and coupons given to customers,” he told Cebu-based daily SunStar. The vaults, along with the newly recovered documents, further support the accusations that Zhao leased the property used for illegal activities. Pura emphasized that the NBI would request custody of the seized items for further examination, ensuring they could assist in strengthening the case for money laundering and human trafficking. This new development adds to the growing scrutiny over illegal POGOs in Cebu. The NBI’s continued investigation highlights the complex nature of these operations, which often involve international networks and violations of Philippine laws. The Tourist Garden Hotel operation came in the wake of a series of raids across Cebu, part of an ongoing national effort to dismantle illegal POGO hubs. In August 2024, the Lapu-Lapu City government, led by Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan, ordered the closure of the hotel after discovering illegal POGO activities, prompting further investigations and raids by various law enforcement agencies, including the NBI and Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC). Mayor Chan had initially acted on reports of foreign nationals being trafficked and exploited in illegal online gambling operations. His office has worked closely with the NBI to monitor and shut down unauthorized gaming establishments in the region.

China's People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy warned young troops of security risks linked to online gambling platforms and online dating apps. Targeting younger soldiers—primarily from the “post-90s” and “post-00s” generations who are highly active online—the PLA warned that online gambling poses serious threats, potentially leading to financial loss and debt, which could compromise personal and national security, based on a report by Reuters. China’s government maintains a strict stance against gambling, particularly online and cross-border activities. These restrictions aim to protect social stability and prevent online gambling-related financial crimes. The Chinese Navy has issued a strong reminder about the importance of safeguarding personal information in military service, emphasizing that sharing such details online can lead to significant security risks. The Navy raised concerns about involvement in online gambling, which is prohibited in China. It likened the compulsive nature of gambling to being “possessed by a demon” and warned that such behavior could plunge individuals into a “bottomless pit” of financial ruin, ultimately leading to overwhelming debt. Since online gambling is illegal within China, many sites operating offshore attempt to attract Chinese citizens, leading to frequent government crackdowns. The PLA Navy’s advisory also extends to online dating, cautioning soldiers about revealing sensitive information, which could expose them to espionage threats and scams. The Navy urged its personnel to be cautious when interacting on social media, advising them to “exercise good judgment” and “keep a safe distance” from making connections with strangers. They also reminded service members to remain true to their principles and avoid forming hasty or indiscriminate online relationships. This cautionary approach aligns with China’s broader cybersecurity measures, which target online activities that could harm the country’s security, especially within the military.

The Commission on Human Rights calls for an impartial probe into allegations of mistreatment of a POGO worker by former PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio. The Commission on Human Rights  (CHR) has called for an impartial investigation into allegations involving the mistreatment of a POGO worker by Winston Casio, former spokesperson of the Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC). The CHR Region III has announced plans to conduct its own investigation into the issue, focusing specifically on evaluating any potential violations of human rights that may have taken place. According to reports, the incident involves claims of verbal and physical abuse, prompting concerns about the treatment of workers within government agencies. “As a government official, Mr. Casio, along with all government personnel, are bound by the highest ethical standards of public service, as outlined in Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees,” the commission said in a statement They added: “While reports indicate that the man involved allegedly made an offensive gesture toward the PAOCC official, the Commission believes that such behaviour does not justify any form of physical retaliation from a public official.” In its statement, the CHR highlighted the importance of protecting the dignity and rights of every worker, regardless of their role. The Commission emphasized that public officials bear the responsibility of upholding ethical standards and fostering a respectful workplace environment. The CHR noted that such allegations, if proven true, could impact public confidence in government institutions and workplace culture within these agencies. The CHR has expressed its support for a fair and transparent investigation, urging all parties involved to cooperate. It emphasized that the inquiry should be conducted with a commitment to accountability and integrity, as this would be essential in addressing the concerns raised by the allegations. As the investigation proceeds, the CHR reaffirmed its focus on promoting respectful treatment and ethical practices across all sectors, with particular attention to protecting the rights of workers.

The PAOCC expects an executive order to be issued this week to ban POGOs, outlining guidelines for their systematic shutdown amid concerns over criminal links. An executive order (EO) outlining the guidelines for the closure of all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) is expected to be issued within the week, according to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC). The EO will provide a framework for the systematic shutdown of POGO operations, which have come under increasing scrutiny due to alleged links to criminal activities. “Palabas na ang EO. I think within the week (The EO is close to being issued, I think it will be released within the week),” PAOCC Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz was quoted as saying in a report published by GMA Network. Cruz emphasized that the EO would not only set out the policy approach but would also clarify the roles and responsibilities of various government agencies involved in enforcing the ban. “It’s more of magiging policy, how we will approach, what agencies are involved. Para alam ng bawat isa kung ano ang magiging trabaho nila and after ng EO, maglalabas sila ng marching orders para sa specific agencies (It’s more of a set of policies—how we will approach the ban and which agencies are involved),” Cruz explained. “After the EO is released, marching orders will be issued to specific agencies to guide their actions.” The new executive order follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to end all POGO operations  in the Philippines. In his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July 2024, Marcos cited concerns over illegal activities connected to POGOs, such as human trafficking, fraud, and violent crimes. These concerns came to light after government raids exposed torture devices and criminal activities within some POGO hubs. The President’s mandate instructed the Philippine Amusements and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), the agency responsible for regulating gambling operations in the country, to ensure that all POGO operations cease by the end of 2024. In line with this directive, the forthcoming EO will define the roles of various agencies, such as law enforcement and local government units (LGUs), to ensure a coordinated approach in shutting down the operations. In a previous statement, Cruz outlined the timeline for the shutdown of POGOs. He mentioned that after the issuance of the EO, a “massive update” would be expected to track progress. “After the deadline, there should be a massive update,” Cruz said. “For those who refuse to close, we will take action. Local government units can shut them down, and the national government will step in if needed.” The EO is set to provide clarity on how these agencies will coordinate to enforce the ban and handle any resistance. Cruz added that those POGO establishments that refuse to comply with the shutdown orders would be subject to immediate arrest, and local government units could move to close them down, with national authorities stepping in if the LGUs fail to act. This move comes as part of a broader crackdown on illegal gambling activities in the country. In recent months, the Philippine government has been focusing on illegal POGO operations, which are often accused of contributing to organized crime. Reports have surfaced of POGO workers being victims of torture , human trafficking, abuse, and exploitation, particularly within certain hubs that operate outside the bounds of the law. In September, Cruz informed a Senate panel that Malacañang planned to issue an executive order banning POGO operations “within two weeks.”

Three PNP-ACG officers were removed after an investigation revealed they tampered with CCTV cameras during a post-raid probe at a Manila scam hub on Oct 31, 2024. Three officers from the Philippine National Police-Anti Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) have been removed from their posts after an internal investigation into their actions during a high-profile raid at an alleged scam hub in Manila. The officers were accused of tampering with a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera during the post-raid investigation on October 31, 2024. The raid, which took place two days earlier on October 29, targeted a suspected Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) facility located inside the Century Peak Tower in Manila. According to a PNA report, the officers in question covered and moved a CCTV camera positioned in a hallway of the building to conceal their actions. The officers were reportedly walking shirtless due to the extreme heat inside the building, which had no air conditioning, and the elevator was out of service, forcing them to walk up to the 23rd floor where the POGO operation was located. The ACG’s chief, Major General Ronnie Francis Cariaga, confirmed the removal of the three officers from their posts and ordered a thorough probe into the incident. He expressed concern for the well-being of the police officers but emphasized that any misconduct within the force would not be tolerated. “The PNP ACG is concerned about the welfare of the police officers, but we take this incident very seriously and will not tolerate such actions. Sanctions will be imposed if these police officers are found liable,” Cariaga was quoted as saying in the PNA report. The officers are now facing administrative proceedings and are under the jurisdiction of the Personnel Holding and Accounting Section (PHAS) of the ACG. The investigation into the incident continues, as authorities seek to determine the full extent of any potential wrongdoing. The raid on the Century Peak Tower was part of a broader operation targeting illegal gambling and phasing out POGO activities by the end of 2024. According to reports, the building housed a POGO operation, a type of online gambling business often associated with various forms of illegal activity, including scamming. The authorities discovered that the operation was masquerading as a legitimate business process outsourcing (BPO) firm, designed to deceive local authorities and the public. This raid was one of several recent operations aimed at cracking down on such illegal activities. Just days after the Century Peak Tower raid, on October 31, a separate operation led by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), the PNP Special Action Force, and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) resulted in the shutdown of Central One Bataan PH, Inc. in Bagac, Bataan. The operation, which was carried out under a search warrant issued by a court in Malolos, Bulacan, revealed that Central One was also a scam and gaming hub posing as a legitimate BPO company. NCRPO Chief Denies Claims of Extortion Meanwhile, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Chief Major General Sidney Hernia has found himself facing allegations of extortion along with 14 other officers, although he has firmly denied the accusations. In a statement, Hernia called the allegations “absurd and unfounded,” and he urged his accusers to present their claims in the proper legal forum. “I will not tolerate any wrongdoing within our ranks, and I fully support a transparent investigation into these allegations,” Hernia said. “The NCRPO remains committed to fighting criminality and protecting the public from fraudulent activities. We welcome the opportunity to clear our names and demonstrate the integrity of our actions.” The accusations against Hernia and the other officers were reportedly made in connection with their involvement in the Central One operation, which the PAOCC later disowned, calling the operation “flawed” due to the controversial release of foreign suspects. Despite the controversy, Hernia and the NCRPO stand by the lawfulness of their actions during the raid.

Winston Casio, the recently relieved spokesperson of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), may face criminal charges for slapping a Filipino man during a raid in Bataan. Winston Casio, the recently relieved spokesperson of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), may face criminal charges for slapping a Filipino man during a raid on a suspected Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator in Bataan. Video footage of the incident, which has gone viral on social media, shows Casio slapping the worker. The PAOCC has launched an internal investigation into the matter. In an interview with Bilyonaryo News Channel’s “Agenda,” PAOCC Chief Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz stated that charges would be filed if sufficient evidence is found. “Kung ano yung maging resulta doon sa imbestigasyon, kung kailangan namin siyang file-an ng kaso dahil nakakita po kami ng ebidensya doon po sa ginawa niya, then mag-fa-file po kami ng criminal charge po laban sa kaniya (On the results of the investigation, if we need to file a case because we found evidence of what he did, then we will file criminal charges against him),” Cruz said. Casio, now on administrative status, has apologized publicly, admitting his actions were impulsive. The agency is still searching for a replacement spokesperson. On November 5, 2024, Winston John Casio, the spokesperson for the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), was officially relieved from his position amid allegations of assaulting a Filipino worker during a raid on a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) facility in Bagac, Bataan.  During the October 31 raid, Casio explained that Filipino workers at the facility were told they could leave, as detaining around 950 individuals was unfeasible. Their release prompted loud cheers from the crowd, leading Casio to send an officer to monitor the situation. When a POGO worker reportedly insulted the officer, Casio confronted him, giving him a choice: face charges for unjust vexation or receive two light slaps. The worker allegedly chose the slaps, and Casio complied, delivering three slaps instead of two. Casio admitted his actions were inappropriate, attributing it to frustration

Five Chinese nationals accused police of extorting P4 million during a Manila raid on a POGO, offering legal help in exchange for securing their release Five Chinese nationals arrested in a Manila raid on a suspected Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGOs) claim that Philippine National Police (PNP) officers tried to extort P4 million in exchange for legal help to secure their release. The Chinese nationals alleged that the extortion attempt occurred after they declined to sign a false document labeling them as victims of human trafficking. This is based on their sworn affidavits which were cited by Bilyonaryo News Channel. According to the BNC report , the detainees have requested the suspension of the PNP officials from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), who were operating under NCRPO Chief Major Gen. Sidney Hernia. However, PNP officials have denied the claims. Major General Hernia, in a statement, quoted by a PNA article asserted, "I will not tolerate any wrongdoing within our ranks, and I fully support a transparent investigation into these allegations." The detainees, who had refused to sign false human trafficking documents, were later able to hire their own lawyers after paying ₱500,000 each. About The Ermita Raid, And Its Controversies The controversial raid happened on October 29, 2024, at a suspected POGO facility located inside the Century Peak Tower in Ermita, Manila, which police authorities described as a raid towards the “mother of all POGOs.”   Police officers reported that the suspects were allegedly involved in multiple scams, including cryptocurrency and romance frauds, resulting in the seizure of numerous devices such as mobile phones, laptops, and various SIM cards. Despite the evidence, the PNP faced a dilemma when the BI declined to take custody of the detained foreign nationals, ultimately leading to their release. Administrators of Century Peak Tower, the building where the raid occurred, claimed they had no knowledge of illegal POGO activities in the premises.  The Ermita raid saw around 69 foreigners - 34 Indonesian, 10 Malaysian, and 25 Chinese nationals nabbed during the operations which took place at the Century Peak Tower. Building management is planning to press charges against the Anti-Cybercrime Group of the PNP and the NCRPO.  Meanwhile, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) officials labeled the operation as “flawed,” citing reports of foreign suspects being released without legal proceedings. .They also added that they were “not consulted nor informed regarding this operations” and distanced themselves from it.  “The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission was not part of the raid that was spearheaded by the PNP NCRPO (National Capital Region Police Office) and the PNP ACG. We were never consulted nor informed regarding this operation. We never release any foreign nationals caught in POGOs. Please do not associate PAOCC with flawed operations,” said the PAOCC statement which was cited in a PNA report. It was reported on November 6 that officers from the PNP-ACG were removed from their posts for allegedly tampering  with a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera during the post-raid investigation on October 31. Major General Ronnie Francis Cariaga, ACG chief, confirmed the removal of three officers involved in a recent incident and ordered a thorough investigation. While expressing concern for the officers’ well-being, Cariaga emphasized a strict stance against misconduct within the force, promising sanctions if liability is proven. The officers now face administrative proceedings under the Personnel Holding and Accounting Section (PHAS) of the ACG. The investigation aims to fully uncover any wrongdoing and assess the necessary disciplinary actions. “The PNP ACG is concerned about the welfare of the police officers, but we take this incident very seriously and will not tolerate such actions. Sanctions will be imposed if these police officers are found liable,” he said in November 6.  The incident has sparked public concern and raised questions about the transparency and accountability of law enforcement agencies in the Philippines. But the PNP asserted that the operation was legitimate, while acknowledging that issues were raised regarding the implementation of the cyber warrant and possible harassment of tenants during the operation. NCRPO also defended the raid, adding that it aimed at executing cyber warrants to combat cybercrime, not anti-human trafficking.  The NCRPO stated that discovering foreign nationals on-site was incidental to the raid's main purpose, and any subsequent releases fall under judicial procedures, not the Bureau of Immigration’s responsibility. Reports indicate that employees from closed POGO hubs were working at Century Peak Tower.

Alice Guo’s legal team seeks dismissal of perjury and falsification charges, calling the allegations unfounded and based on misunderstandings of her documentation. Alice Guo’s legal team is urging the dismissal of perjury and falsification charges filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). The camp of the dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor is calling the allegations unfounded and based on misunderstandings of her documentation and business dealings. The legal counsel of Guo argues that the charges are not only unfounded but may also be fueled by political motivations, given her rising influence in the region and her background as a successful businesswoman. Guo, accused of being a Chinese national, faces accusations of falsifying official records and lying under oath. Her camp has filed a motion to dismiss, arguing that the accusations might be influenced by Guo’s rising influence in the region. “Respectfully, there is no enough evidence to prove that I actually committed any of these crimes imputed against me. In fact, one can surmise that the purpose of the repetitive allegations in this Complaint is simply to vex, annoy and harass me,” Guo said in her affidavit, as quoted by the Inquirer. The NBI claims Guo’s documents show discrepancies that misrepresent her identity and affiliations, amounting to perjury and document falsification. However, Guo’s lawyers counter that any alleged inconsistencies are minor clerical errors, not willful attempts to deceive the public or the authorities. They emphasize that these are “administrative oversights, not criminal acts,” and argue that the legal basis for the charges is weak because the intent to deceive, an essential element in perjury and falsification cases, is missing. Guo’s counsel points out that mistakes in documentation are common, especially in complex business and bureaucratic environments, and do not automatically imply guilt or malicious intent. “Ito yung preliminary investigation sa kasong perjury saka falsification, well nag-submit kami ng counter-affidavit so basically tapos na ang PI on our part except kung mag-reply yung kabila sasagutin namin, (This is the preliminary investigation for the perjury and falsification case. Well, we submitted a counter-affidavit, so basically, the PI on our part is finished, unless the other side replies, then we will respond.)” Guo’s lawyer Atty. Stephen David told reporters in a chance interview. David’s comments suggest that Guo’s team is confident in their defense and is prepared to continue challenging the charges if the NBI chooses to escalate the case further. Guo’s legal team contends that the NBI’s focus on minor inconsistencies suggests an overreach, asserting that no malicious intent or deliberate misrepresentation occurred.  By framing the charges as a matter of administrative error rather than criminal action, Guo’s camp hopes to persuade the court to see the allegations as part of an effort to harass and discredit her. “Siya ang talagang pumirma, pre-signed kasi iyan, so wala akong nakikitang falsification doon kasi siya naman ang pumirma, ngayon kung sino ang nag-notaryo dapat yun ang tanungin natin. (She is the one who actually signed it; it was pre-signed. So, I don’t see any falsification there because she was the one who signed it. Now, if there’s anyone to question, it should be the notary who did it),” David added. But in latest news, The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has blocked 1,627 “spurious” birth certificates of foreign nationals, including one linked to Alice Guo, which Senator Grace Poe confirmed during a Senate session on November 7, 2024, as she updated the body on an ongoing audit of fraudulent birth certificates.  Poe, who chairs the Senate finance committee, shared that the PSA’s internal investigation had flagged these documents as fraudulent. The names of the individuals involved have been forwarded to the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). Of the 1,627 blocked certificates, 18, including Guo's, have been referred to the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) for cancellation.

Century Peak Tower management in Ermita plans to press charges against the ACG and NCRPO after a raid on the building's 23rd floor on October 29, 2024. The management of Century Peak Tower in Ermita, Manila, plans to press charges against the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) following the October 29, 2024 raid on the building’s 23rd floor. Century Peak said the raid–aimed at a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) and alleged online scam operation–was unwarranted since the targeted company, Vertex Technological Corp., no longer operates in the building. The building’s management expressed concern about the heavy police presence, noting it caused disruption and anxiety among tenants. The raid, carried out with a search warrant, resulted in the arrest of 85 individuals, including 69 foreigners. 74 of the arrested individuals were later released after being held for over 48 hours without formal charges. Century Peak Tower management condemned the incident. “Century Tower strongly condemns the recent police operations which have caused substantial damage and severely affected its operations and restricted access for all its tenants. We want the public and law enforcement to know that this company has not been in the building since the end of last year. It was a legitimate company with a government-issued license to operate as an Offshore Gaming company,” said Atty. Baby Perian Arcega, legal counsel for Century Peak Tower, in a statement to reporters, last November 3. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission  (PAOCC) has distanced itself from the raid, stressing that it does not support operations that release foreign nationals involved in POGO activities and requested that its name not be associated with these actions. Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna was only informed of the raid once it was underway. Authorities earlier alleged that the hub was also the “mother of all POGO hubs” as nabbed foreigners claimed connections with the past administration’s officials. Secretary Jonvic Remulla of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has been urged to initiate an investigation into the raid. Remulla stated that he is assessing whether the proper protocols were followed and expects a full report soon. Meanwhile, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo defended the operation, indicating that Vertex Technology had allegedly rebranded as Quantum Solution and was under investigation for fraud-related activities, including cryptocurrency scams and online romance fraud. Fajardo emphasized that the raid was conducted legally, with evidence supporting the alleged illegal activities, and noted that police did not need to coordinate with anti-trafficking agencies as the case pertained to regulatory violations rather than human trafficking.