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Kids of deported Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) workers are now seeking assistance from the government. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) revealed that 15 young children, whose foreign fathers were deported Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) workers, are now seeking government assistance. These children, whose mothers are Filipino, range from infants to toddlers and are facing hardships such as food shortages and housing insecurity. PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz expressed deep concern over the situation.  READ: Former POGO Worker Disrupts NAIA Amid POGO Operations Closure “Itong 15 bata na ‘to mga anak ito nung mga dating POGO workers na pina-deport natin. Every week, pumupunta sa amin ‘yan, humihingi ng pang-gatas, pang-pampers, minsan ‘yung iba pambayad pa ng apartment nila. (These 15 are children of former POGO workers who got deported. Every week, they come to us asking money for milk, diapers, and sometimes even to pay for their apartment rent.),” Cruz said, as reported by GMA News.  “Hindi naman nating pwedeng tanggihan ‘yan kasi nga ano sila, naging collateral damage o naging problema sila na binunga nitong illegal POGO operations dito sa atin. ((We can't turn them away because they have become collateral damage or a problem brought about by the illegal POGO operations in our country.)” he added. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent ban on POGOs aims to address various criminal activities linked to the industry, but it has inadvertently left these children vulnerable. The PAOCC official said they are not letting the children stay inside their detention center, but they provide them the support they need. He said they are also now coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regarding the matter. READ: PAOCC Raids Illegal POGO Near Senate, Arrests 200 POGO Workers Marcos' Executive Order No. 74 has broadened the scope of the POGO ban to encompass illegal offshore gaming operations, licensing processes, and the closure of unauthorized operations. Any POGO or internet gaming operator lacking the necessary government permits is now categorized as an illegal gambling entity, subject to increased law enforcement scrutiny. Foreign workers previously employed by POGOs were required to transition their 9G visas to tourist visas by October 15, 2023. They must depart the Philippines by the end of the year. READ: 60% of Filipinos Support POGO Ban: Survey Approximately 200 POGO hubs continue to operate despite government efforts. PAOCC is currently holding around 700 individuals, with 250 scheduled for deportation next week. These individuals, who are no longer permitted to work, are detained at a former POGO hub in Pasay City. Read related article: Hontiveros Highlights POGO Victims as Senate Ends Probe

China has intensified its crackdown on organized crime, repatriating 240 gambling and fraud suspects from Cambodia, with 500 more expected to be returned. China has intensified its crackdown on Chinese organized crime in Southeast Asia, repatriating 240 arrested gambling and fraud suspects from Cambodia. Chinese state media reported that over 500 more are expected to be returned. This is the second batch of Chinese nationals to be deported from Cambodia by chartered plane, following the repatriation of over 680 individuals in April. To combat cross-border online gambling and fraud, China has collaborated with neighboring countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, and the Philippines to apprehend Chinese suspects and bring them back to China. This latest deportation comes a week after China and Myanmar dismantled large telecom fraud centers in northern Myanmar, leading to the arrest of over 53,000 Chinese nationals since last year. In September, China and Cambodia strengthened their cooperation against gambling and fraud, signing agreements to enhance law enforcement collaboration and combat Chinese organized crime. Cambodia banned online gambling in 2019, particularly targeting Chinese-run operations in Sihanoukville. Gambling is likewise banned in China. Chinese state television, CCTV, stated that public security authorities will continue to deepen law enforcement cooperation with other countries and regions, dismantle gambling and fraud dens involving Chinese nationals, and curb the high incidence of such crimes. China's decade-long "Operation Fox Hunt" to fight corruption and economic crimes has led to the repatriation of thousands of suspects and the recovery of billions of dollars in assets. Read related article: China, Cambodia Strengthen Ties Against Online Gambling, Scams

CEZA is tasked to work with AMLC to draft guidelines for the ban's implementation. This move aims to curb illegal activities and strengthen industry regulation. The Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) was instructed by Malacañang to collaborate with the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) in drafting guidelines to enforce the ban on offshore gaming hubs. This directive, reported by Philippine Star, follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s executive order prohibiting Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs). Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin wrote to the AMLC, urging coordination with CEZA to develop the implementation framework. President Marcos initially announced the POGO ban during his third State of the Nation Address, instructing government agencies to phase out POGO operations by the year’s end. “Please be informed that this Office has directed the CEZA to coordinate with the AMLC regarding the crafting of implementing guidelines for the ban on offshore interactive gaming operations and all other offshore gaming services within the Cagayan Special Economic Zone and Free Port,” Bersamin stated in a letter released by the Office of Senator Risa Hontiveros. Hontiveros had earlier raised concerns about CEZA during the Senate's final POGO hearing. Although CEZA claimed it does not host POGOs, Hontiveros expressed concerns that Marcos’ executive order might contain loopholes. “I am pleased that the Office of the Executive Secretary promptly responded to my call during the Senate hearing to address gaps in President Marcos’ Executive Order 74, which appears to exempt economic zones like CEZA from the POGO ban,” Hontiveros said in Tagalog.The executive order, issued in November, gives legal POGOs one month to cease operations.  The Philippine Senate earlier said it had plans to push for legislative reforms  in immigration, money laundering, and election candidacy laws following its investigation into the illegal activities of POGOs.  The Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, chaired by Senator Risa Hontiveros, concluded its hearings on November 26, 2024. These hearings exposed POGOs as being involved in serious crimes, including human trafficking, money laundering, espionage, and torture. Read related article: Stricter Laws on Immigration, Money Laundering After POGO Probe

The House Quad Committee to investigate troll farms, allegedly funded by a POGO boss, that are spreading misinformation to disrupt their probe into the industry. The House Quad Committee (Quadcomm) has announced that it will launch an investigation into claims that troll farms, allegedly funded by the operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), are attempting to derail the committee’s ongoing probe into the controversial industry. The investigation follows reports that these troll farms have been used to spread misinformation, undermine the committee’s work, and even intimidate key witnesses. Panel co-chair Dan Fernandez revealed in a media interview on Thursday that the committee had received credible reports suggesting that Michael Yang, a former economic adviser to former President Rodrigo Duterte, is behind the troll farm activity. Yang, who has been heavily linked to POGO operations in the country, allegedly finances these attacks through resources from his POGO ventures.  “Reports indicate that Michael Yang’s POGOs are behind the financing of these troll farms. Richard Lim, known as the ‘King of POGO,’ is said to be fronting for these operations,” Fernandez was quoted as saying in a Daily Tribune report. He explained that Lim, who reportedly took over Yang’s POGOs, is believed to be orchestrating these efforts to discredit the committee and its investigations into the illegal practices surrounding POGOs. The controversy surrounding POGOs has deepened with each passing day as more investigations reveal troubling links to criminal activities. The reports regarding the alleged troll farms are just the latest chapter in a growing scandal that continues to fuel the ongoing inquiry. According to Fernandez, the committee is working to verify the claims and further investigate the extent of the troll farm operations.  The committee’s inquiry has also raised questions about the involvement of prominent figures within the Chinese community in the Philippines, especially regarding the role of Richard Lim. Fernandez stated that there have been questions raised in the press as to why Lim, a well-known figure in the Chinese business sector, has not yet been directly named in the investigation despite his association with Yang’s POGOs. Yang, a key figure in the country’s POGO industry, has been at the center of multiple controversies. He has been accused of having ties to organized criminal syndicates, particularly with regard to the illegal drug trade. Yang has been linked to the September 2023 seizure of P3.5 billion worth of illegal drugs in a warehouse located in Mexico, Pampanga. The warehouse was reportedly owned by Empire 999 Realty Corporation, a real estate company co-founded by Yang. In addition to the allegations of drug trafficking, Senator Risa Hontiveros, a vocal critic of the POGO industry, has suggested that Yang may be involved in Chinese intelligence operations within the Philippines. Hontiveros has been outspoken in her condemnation of the POGO sector, which she claims fosters an environment of corruption and criminal activity. According to Hontiveros, these operations not only affect the country’s economy but also put national security at risk. The ongoing House investigation has uncovered disturbing evidence that connects POGOs to the illegal drug trade. The committee has reported that foreign nationals, particularly from China, have used proceeds from the drug trade to corrupt local officials and acquire land. These foreign nationals are said to have used fraudulent documents, such as fake Philippine birth certificates and government-issued IDs, to further conceal their illegal activities. As the investigation unfolds, it has also been revealed that the alleged troll farms are targeting not only committee members but also witnesses who have exposed the links between POGOs and illegal activities. According to Quad committee chair, Ace Barbers, the troll campaigns are designed to intimidate and discourage witnesses from coming forward, thus preventing the truth from emerging. Barbers pointed out that these troll farms are not just targeting committee members, they are also intimidating those who are testifying against the criminal activities of POGOs.  Read related article: POGO-Funded Slander Campaign Condemned by Barbers

Authorities arrested 19 suspects allegedly involved in a large-scale online gambling ring operating in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Thai authorities have apprehended nearly 20 individuals in Chiang Mai, Thailand, who were allegedly involved in a large-scale online gambling ring. The suspects reportedly targeted players not only in Thailand but also across the border in China.  News outlet Khaosod reported that the operation, led by a Taiwanese national known only as "Mr. Kimmy," generated a staggering monthly turnover exceeding 10 million baht (US$290,000). Nineteen suspects were arrested in the operation.  This sophisticated operation went beyond the typical image of a backroom gambling den. The ringleaders conducted their business from luxury properties in Chiang Mai, suggesting a significant level of financial success. To further expand their reach, they employed a dedicated team responsible for advertising the platform, www.Betaccc.app , across various online and offline channels. The platform's popularity is evident from its reported membership base exceeding 100,000 individuals. The arrested suspects now face serious legal consequences. Thai authorities are charging them under the country's Gambling Act for both organizing and promoting illegal gambling activities.  These charges encompass not only the direct running of the operation but also any actions taken to encourage others to participate. The successful raid was the culmination of a focused investigation by Thai authorities.  Acting on reports of suspicious activity involving Taiwanese nationals renting out high-end properties in Chiang Mai, the Technology Crime Suppression Division, led by Police Major General Worapong Kamlue, launched a thorough investigation. This investigation yielded enough evidence to secure a court order, allowing them to target three key locations associated with the international gambling platform betadd.app   While the raid has resulted in numerous arrests, authorities believe the investigation is far from over. Their current focus lies in apprehending “Mr. Kimmy,” the ringleader, and any other potential accomplices who may have played a role in this illegal operation. This case highlights the ongoing battle against online gambling in Thailand and the lengths some organizations go to in order to operate under the radar. Read related article: 5,000 Nabbed in Interpol's Global Crackdown on Illegal Football Bets

The Senate ended its POGO probe, with Senator Risa Hontiveros paying tribute to the victims. The investigation revealed ties to crimes like human trafficking. Senator Risa Hontiveros put victims of illegal offshore gaming operators in the spotlight as the Philippine Senate recently concluded its investigation on the controversial industry.  The inquiry, which spanned 19 months and 15 hearings, culminated in a tribute to the victims of crimes linked to POGOs, including human trafficking and fraud. "Kina Alex Chong, Dale Ignacio, alias Ivy, alias Karina, alias Rita, this is for you. Sa mga biktima ng mga POGO sa loob ata labas ng bansa, this is for you (For Alex Chong, Dale Ignacio, alias Ivy, alias Karina, alias Rita, this is for you. To the victims of POGOs both inside and outside the country, this is for you)," Hontiveros said in her closing remarks, as quoted by ABS-CBN News.  Key issues discussed included Chinese espionage linked to POGOs, regulatory loopholes, and corruption within governmental institutions.  Hontiveros emphasized the need for policy reforms to close these gaps and ensure justice for victims.  As the chair of the Senate Committee on Women and Children, Hontiveros was among the first to raise concerns about the offshore gambling industry's potential issues when it gained popularity for its promise of jobs and investment opportunities. The Senate's investigation gained momentum earlier this year following the discovery of an illegal POGO hub in the town of Bamban, Tarlac. This operation was allegedly supported by then-Mayor Alice Guo, later accused to be a Chinese national named Guo Hua PIng. The investigation on Guo opened a can of worms in the POGO industry, and prompted authorities to close down its operations. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. then ordered POGOs across the country shut down, initially through a proclamation in his State of the Nation Address, and later on formalized through Executive Order 74 .  "This may be the end of our hearings on POGO, but this is only the beginning of the legislative reform that we will strive to push to ensure to every Filipino that there will never be another Alice Guo," said Senator Hontiveros. Read related article: Senator Sounds Alarm on Officials “Coaching” POGOs

Gambling in Singapore has dipped, but illegal online betting statistics rose. The percentage of gamblers among Singapore residents aged 18+ also fell in 2023. The proportion of Singapore residents aged 18 and older who gamble decreased in 2023, maintaining a downward trend that began three years earlier.  Gambling rates in Singapore have also continued to decline, according to government data. However, the same data also observed more people gambling illegally compared to the previous study. According to a recent National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) survey, published in The Straits Times on November 28, 2023, gambling participation among Singapore residents has decreased. However, those who do gamble are spending more, and there’s a growing trend towards illegal online gambling. While only 40% of respondents admitted to gambling in the past year, the lowest rate since 2005, the percentage of individuals engaging in illegal online gambling has doubled from 0.3% in 2020 to 1% in 2023. Billy Lee, executive director of Blessed Grace Social Services, suggests that the actual number of Singaporeans gambling illegally online may be even higher than the survey indicates. “When people do illegal things, of course they wouldn’t reveal it. They don’t want to be found out,” Lee said.  The spokesman suggested that the rise in illegal online gambling might be due to easy access and changing perceptions of gambling as a recreational activity. According to the survey, 4D and TOTO remained the most popular forms of gambling, with 30% and 29% of respondents participating, respectively. Singapore Sweep and social gambling were less popular, with around 8% of respondents engaging in each. The NCPG will collaborate with its partners to intensify public education efforts, aiming to increase awareness of the risks associated with illegal online gambling and its absence of responsible gaming measures. Read related article: $9.18 Billion Bet in Singapore for Lottery, Sports Betting

Senator Risa Hontiveros describes POGOs as a “monster” deeply involved in human trafficking, money laundering, torture, espionage. The Senate plans to advocate for changes to immigration, money laundering, and election candidacy laws following the conclusion of its Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) investigation. Senator Risa Hontiveros confirmed that the committee’s report on the inquiry will be released shortly. The Philippine Senate’s Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality wrapped up its investigations into the alleged illegal operations of POGOs, which have been linked to a range of criminal activities. The final hearing, held on November 26, 2024, was chaired by Senator Hontiveros, who underscored the severity of the findings, describing POGOs as a “monster” deeply involved in human trafficking, money laundering, torture, espionage, and other illicit activities. Senator Hontiveros stated that the success of the investigation lies in shedding light on the victims who have suffered from these illegal operations.  “Ngayong tapos na ang Pogo hearings, isusulat na po ang Committee Report kung saan maisasaad ang mga legislative amendments at proposals na gusto nating isulong. Kasama dito ang pagpapalakas ng mga sistema kontra-abuso sa civil registration, immigration, money laundering, kandidatura sa eleksyon, at national security (Now that the POGO hearings are over, the Committee Report will be written, which will outline the legislative amendments and proposals we aim to push forward,” she said. Among the key legislative reforms to be addressed are strengthening systems against abuse in areas such as civil registration, immigration, money laundering, election candidacy, and national security)," she said in her statement.  Hontiveros emphasized that one of the committee’s goals is to pass the Anti-POGO bill, which is designed to reinforce the government’s decision to ban illegal POGOs across the country, a move already announced by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. During the hearing, the senator expressed confidence that the bill would gain traction in the Senate, securing support for a broader ban and stricter regulations. As part of the investigation, Hontiveros revealed a diagram listing individuals implicated in the illegal POGO trade. The diagram highlighted several prominent figures, including former President Rodrigo Duterte, his former economic adviser Michael Yang, and a number of local government officials such as dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, her family, and Sual, Pangasinan Mayor Dong Calugay. Among the names also mentioned were business partners Cassie Li Ong and former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque. READ: Hontiveros “web” links Ex-Pres Duterte, Yang to POGOs Hontiveros specifically called out Michael Yang as a “key actor” in Chinese intelligence operations within the Philippines. This claim is supported by further allegations, including the testimony of She Zhijiang, a detained Chinese spy, who claimed that Guo, along with him, had been working for China's Ministry of State Security as an agent. According to Hontiveros, if these claims are substantiated, they could have serious implications for the country’s national security. The senator also noted that the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) is scheduled to provide additional findings regarding the infiltration of Chinese intelligence operatives into the country. This information, Hontiveros stressed, would be shared in a private executive session to safeguard national security interests. She assured the public that her committee would maintain its jurisdiction over the investigation and continue to seek vital information, especially from individuals such as She Zhijiang, who could provide further insight into the operations of Chinese spies within the Philippines. In addition to addressing these security concerns, Hontiveros pledged to continue collaborating with the courts to ensure that individuals like Alice Guo and her associates are prosecuted for their roles in illegal POGO activities. The senator expressed a strong commitment to holding those responsible accountable, especially as the involvement of foreign intelligence agents has raised alarm over the country’s sovereignty and security. Read related article: PDEA Matrix Links Michael Yang, Alice Guo to POGOs

PDEA has linked ex-adviser Michael Yang and Alice Guo to a drug syndicate tied to POGOs, highlighting alleged human trafficking and money laundering links. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has unveiled a matrix linking former presidential economic adviser Michael Yang and ex-Bamban Mayor Alice Guo to an alleged drug syndicate connected to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). This matrix highlights their purported involvement in facilitating illicit activities such as drug trafficking and money laundering. PDEA Deputy Director General Renato Gumban presented the matrix during a House QuadComm hearing on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators.  Guo and Yang have also been implicated in other alleged illegal activities, including human trafficking and exploitation of foreign workers, based on a matrix that was reported by Abante Tonite.  Authorities are focusing on links between these individuals and Empire 999 Realty, Inc., a company reportedly tied to illegal drug operations. In September 2023, P3.6 billion worth of illegal drugs were seized from a warehouse in Mexico, Pampanga, owned by Willie Ong, another incorporator of Empire 999 Realty.  Investigations suggest that this syndicate used corporate entities as fronts for organized crime operations. Empire 999 has also been linked to companies such as Golden Sun 999, which is linked to businesswoman Rose Nono Lin. Lin was linked to the controversial Pharmally Corporation which secured significant COVID-19 contracts.  Lin is married to Lin Weixiong, alias Allan Lim, tied to Yang. Lim is accused of drug operations and casino schemes, while Yang is allegedly a financier of a drug syndicate. Connections include Hongsheng Gaming Technology, a POGO in Tarlac, linked to Yang's brother, and Alice Guo, tied to suspected laundering entities QJJ Farm and RMCE Metal Products. Officials are continuing to investigate the extent of their involvement and any connections to other high-profile figures or institutions. “The volume of corporate layering along with the corporate personalities are truly overwhelming, Mr. Chair,” Batangas Rep. Germin Luistro said.  PDEA, however, was scolded for Senator Bong Go's inclusion, after they supposedly failed to establish his links to the illegal drug trade or POGOs.  “Sorry, Asec. Gumban. Do not create a matrix that is incriminating and that would connect people with a title saying POGO and drugs connection. Complete your investigation first,” Alliance of Concerned Teachers Rep. France Castro said, as reported by Inquirer.  Surigao Del Norte 2nd District Representative Ace Barbers urged the PDEA to ensure that any matrix they submit to the committee contains sufficient and reliable information to support their claims. He emphasized the need to substantiate the involvement of individuals in the proceedings, noting that accusations without solid evidence would be difficult to accept. “Now if personalities appear in the conduct of these proceedings…we need to substantiate that. Because it will be hard to make accusations without evidence,” Barbers said.  Read related article:   Hontiveros “web” links Ex-Pres Duterte, Yang to POGOs

The House quad committee detained ex-Mayor Teddy Tumang for allegedly lying during a POGO inquiry, citing him in contempt over links to illegal operations. Lawmakers accused former Mexico, Pampanga mayor Teddy Tumang of lying about his alleged links with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO).  Initially detained by the House Quad Committee for lying during a tense probe into POGOs in the country, Tumang was eventually freed after the contempt order was lifted.  "I express my most profound apologies for any conduct that may have been perceived by this honorable committee to be non-cooperative and disrespectful. I firmly commit once again to help this honorable committee in all hearings, proceedings and investigations," part of the motion read, as cited by ABS-CBN News.  "With that I humbly beg the compassion and indulgence of this committee to lift the order of contempt for I have not willfully and intentionally refused to answer the honorable committee. I am respectfully asking the honorable committee to reconsider the order of contempt for humanitarian and medical reasons," the motion added.  The motion was filed on November 27, 2024 by Abang Lingkod party-list Representative Stephen Paduano, who accused Tumang of lying about his relationship with Aedy Yang. Paduano later revealed that Tumang and Yang traveled together to Fujian in China, according to a Daily Tribune report.Yang is a Chinese citizen and incorporator of Empire 999 Realty, Inc., based in Mexico, Pampanga.   In September 2023, authorities confiscated ₱3.6 billion worth of illegal drugs from a warehouse in Mexico, Pampanga, owned by Willie Ong. Records from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency reveal that Ong and Yang are both incorporators of Empire 999 Realty, Inc. Tumang defended himself by stating that he had only met Ong twice and initially encountered Yang in Fujian, China, later meeting him again when Yang expressed interest in purchasing land in Mexico, Pampanga. Paduano later said, as reported by Inquirer, “Don’t lie.  You’re lying!  Ano’ng hindi, may mga picture kayo abroad, you were invited and you represented Mexico, Pampanga in that travel with Aedy Yang.  And that’s Aedy Yang that introduced all of you […] to the Ambassador.”  After being cited in contempt, he was further being asked to elaborate his relationship with Yang, to which Tumang replied:  “Hindi ko na po ma-elaborate your honor [iyong mga sagot ko], masama na po ang pakiramdam ko (I cannot elaborate your honor ... I am not feeling well).” When asked how he felt after the contempt order was lifted, Tumang expressed relief, saying, "Okay naman. Siyempre of course, wala na tayong stress. Kanina stressed na stressed (It's okay now. Of course, there's no more stress. Earlier, I was very stressed)." He clarified that it was not his intention to avoid answering lawmakers' questions. "It might just be a difference in interpretation… how they interpret things. I wasn’t lying. Everything was resolved (Baka hindi lang kami parehas ng interpretation… Kung paano i-interpret yung kanilang ano. Wala naman akong ano… 'Di naman ako nagsisinungaling. Naayos naman)." he added. Read related article:   House Panel Approves Bill to Ban POGOs in the Philippines

The web unveiled in the Senate hearing implicated former President Rodrigo Duterte and ex-adviser Michael Yang to POGOs. Senator Risa Hontiveros closed the Philippine senate’s probe on now-illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) by exposing people who “used POGOs for their own selfish interests, their own personal gain.”  The web, which she unveiled to close out the hearing, involved former president implicated ex-president Rodrigo Duterte and ex-adviser Michael Yang in POGOs. The five-year investigation, which included the probe on the “Pastillas Scam,” scrutinized policies enabling abuses, including immigration, business registration, and bank secrecy, highlighting the need for legislative reforms to prevent future exploitation. Hontiveros vowed to push for legal changes to protect Filipinos from similar abuses. Hontiveros concluded that POGOs were used as a "Trojan horse" for corruption.  "Ang nilitis natin dito ay ang katibayan at kasapatan ng ating mga batas para hadlangan ang abuso ng POGO. At ang hatol–nung tinimbang, nakakalungkot at kulang na kulang (What we examined here is the evidence and adequacy of our laws to prevent the abuse of POGOs. And the verdict—when weighed—is disappointing and severely lacking),” Hontiveros said as quoted by GMA News Online.  The matrix also includes Cassandra Li Ong, the authorized representative of Lucky South 99, and Duterte’s former spokesperson, Harry Roque, who is currently hiding from authorities. READ: Immigration, NBI Give Conflicting Info on Harry Roque Location Aside from them, Alice Guo, and the self-confessed spy She Zhijiang were also included. Zhijiang alleged that Guo is a fellow spy. As reported by Philstar Life, Guo's family members, specifically her purported sister Sheila, brother Wesley, mother Lin Wen Yi, and father Jian Zhong Guo, are named in the list. They are reportedly involved as co-incorporators in various business ventures.  Additionally, Sual Mayor Dong Caluag, believed to be Guo's partner, is also connected to this network. Additional individuals linked to Guo in Baofu Land include Yuzheng Can, Huang Zhiyang, Zhang Ruijin, Lin Baoyin, and JP Samson. Notably, Ruijin and Baoyin are implicated in Singapore's largest money laundering case. Michael Yang's siblings, Tony and Hongjian, were also identified. Tony owns a POGO in Cagayan using Xionwei Technology, while Hongjian shares a joint account connected to Yuzheng Can of Hongsheng. Further connections include Lin Weixiong, Yang's associate in Paili Holdings Corporation, and his wife, Rose Nono Lin, a Pharmally co-incorporator and owner of POGO Xionwei Technology. Gerald Cruz, linked to both Pharmally and Full Win Group of Companies, was named as well. Read related article: Alice Guo Linked to Chinese Gangs Behind Crypto Dating Scams

Authorities have given conflicting information on the location of Harry Roque who is facing an arrest order amid scrutiny over alleged POGO ties. Authorities, particularly in Immigration and Intelligence, have given conflicting information on former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque’s whereabouts, amid scrutiny over his alleged Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator ties and speculation about his location. The Bureau of Immigration (BI) earlier said Roque is still in the Philippines, citing a lack of record about an attempt to leave the country.  “Based on BI records, Roque is still in the country. There is no recorded recent attempt to depart the Philippines,” BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said in a statement on November 25, 2024. Roque is being linked to Lucky South 99, a company under government investigation for its ties to the Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) sector.  Roque reportedly provided legal counsel to the firm, raising concerns about potential regulatory influence. Lawmakers have questioned Lucky South 99’s compliance with regulations and its alleged involvement in illicit activities.  READ: House Panel Pushes for Harry Roque's Surrender, Cites Urgency Roque and his wife, Mylah, were summoned to provide documentation on their financial dealings and ties to the company but failed to comply, prompting arrest orders and intensifying scrutiny of their roles in the ongoing POGO investigation. Vice President Sara Duterte, during her November 23 online press conference, insinuated that Roque might have already left the country. Roque has been under an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) since August, barring him from leaving the Philippines without prior clearance.  The ex-spokesperson of former President Rodrigo Duterte is facing an arrest order from the House of Representatives after being held in contempt. Roque was cited in contempt for failing to provide documents that would explain the sudden rise in his wealth. The order for his detention comes after Roque’s failure to comply with requests to submit financial records that could clarify the source of his unexpected financial gains. But the National Bureau of Investigation affirmed the possibility raised by Duterte’s viral video, contradicting Immigration’s statements.  "We have the same information, but it has yet to be confirmed," said NBI Director Jaime Santiago during an interview on DZBB, while declining to provide additional details, citing the ongoing investigation by the NBI. Meanwhile, PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo stated that they would verify with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and other sources whether Roque has indeed left the country, exploring possible backdoor routes that he might have taken. "Pero kung nag-backdoor po siya, we will try to confirm po 'yan sa other sources kung totoong nakalabas po siya. But it is a possibility po na nakalabas po siya considering na alam naman po niya na hanggang ngayon ay hinahanap pa rin po siya ng Sergeant-at-Arms ng Kongreso po," Fajardo said, as quoted by GMA News.  (But if he left through a backdoor, we will try to confirm that through other sources to verify if he really left. However, it is a possibility that he managed to leave, considering he is aware that the Sergeant-at-Arms of Congress is still looking for him)  The House of Representatives issued arrest orders for Roque and his wife, Mylah, after they failed to attend recent quad committee hearings investigating alleged POGO links. The couple also did not provide requested documentation, including details of their assets. “Their refusal to cooperate raises serious questions about their involvement in the matter,” noted one legislator during the hearings, as reported by Asia Gaming Brief. Despite the ILBO against her, Mylah Roque reportedly traveled to Singapore on September 3 for medical treatment. A separate ILBO was issued against her on September 16. Read related article: Has Harry Roque Left The Philippines Amid POGO Probe?