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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?

A new tactic has emerged: POGOs rebranding themselves as business process outsourcing (BPO) companies and moving down south of the Philippines. The Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) industry, once a booming sector, has been facing increasing scrutiny and regulatory pressure. Now, a new tactic has emerged: POGOs rebranding themselves as business process outsourcing (BPO) companies. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has warned that some POGO firms, after being fragmented into smaller groups, are adopting the BPO guise to evade detection. This strategy, according to PAOCC Director Winnie Quidato, poses a significant threat to the legitimate BPO industry. "The large POGO companies that we have raided before are now breaking down into smaller groups. Some are even rebranding themselves as BPOs," Quidato stated in a Senate hearing, as reported by Manila Standard. READ: BPO Raid Linked to POGO Sparks Debate on Enforcement Limits The hearing about POGOs was the Senate’s last, with the committee expected to wrap up the proceedings on November 26, 2024.  Senator Risa Hontiveros echoed these concerns, expressing fears that the reputation of the BPO industry could be tarnished by the actions of these disguised POGO operations. She has called for stricter monitoring and enforcement to prevent such rebranding. During the hearing, PAOCC also bared that many POGO operations are relocating to the Visayas and Mindanao regions, often disguised as legitimate businesses. PAOCC Director Winnie Quidato stated that the agency has observed a significant increase in POGO activities outside of Luzon. “Because PAOCC is active in Luzon, we found that most of POGOs are now in several Visayas areas and even Mindanao. They are there now,” he said. To further conceal their operations, Quidato noted that former POGO employees are rebranding themselves as BPO workers. "We've been monitoring those who used to work for POGOs, and we've observed that some only change their names at the SEC and pretend to be BPO," he explained, as reported by the Inquirer.  Read related article:   PAGCOR Calls For Vigilance Amid POGOs “Masquerading” As BPOs

Dismissed Mayor Alice Guo is suspected of acting as an "agent of influence" for POGO interests. An intelligence official described dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo as an "agent of influence" as the Senate tried to wrap up its hearing on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) on November 26, 2024.  Asked by Senator Risa Hontiveros on whether National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) has determined if Guo is a spy, Deputy Director General Ashely Acedillo testified that available intelligence suggests the former Bamban mayor is acting as an agent of influence. "Within historical context, given that these activities have been common especially during the Cold War, the activities and the facts that have come to light so far in this committee and other committees especially in the House [of Representatives], point to the fact that she is [an agent of influence]. And even in discussions within the intelligence community, there is a consensus that indeed she is an agent of influence," NICA Deputy Director General Ashley Acedillo said, as reported by GMA News Online.  The National Bureau of Investigation earlier said that Alice Guo’s fingerprints matched with a certain Chinese national named Guo Hua Ping. Acedillo pointed out that he cannot categorically confirm if Guo is a spy.  “It requires a determination of fact. Meaning, the intelligence agency to which that trained her, employed her, and supervised her, or controlled her, either confirms or an officer of that agency confirms the existence or the fact rather of Ms. Guo Hua Ping being their agent,” Acedillo said, as reported by the Inquirer. Guo did not attend the Senate hearing as it conflicts with a hearing at the Pasig Regional Trial Court. The Senate initially requested for Guo and 5 others to be allowed to attend but a judge denied the appeal, according to ABS-CBN News.  The controversial mayor is currently facing a non-bailable charge of qualified human trafficking for allegedly conspiring to allow an illegal POGO in her town.  Read related article: AMLC to Probe Banks Linked to Guo, POGO Money Laundering

During a POGO raid in Paranaque,  officers were found to have planted firearms and attempted to destroy closed-circuit television (CCTV) recordings. A high-ranking police officer is facing dismissal from the service for failing to prevent the unlawful arrest, detention, and robbery of four Chinese nationals by his subordinates.  The incident, which occurred during a police raid in Parañaque City last September 16, 2023, led to an investigation by the PNP Internal Affairs Service. PNP did not disclose the name of the official.  “The Internal Affairs Service (IAS) has concluded its investigation into the controversial police operation conducted in September 2023, recommending the dismissal of a police general under the principle of command responsibility and gross neglect of duty. This decision underscores the PNP's unwavering commitment to accountability and integrity within its ranks,” IAS Inspector General Brigido J. Dulay said in a statement, as reported by the Manila Bulletin.   The officer was found guilty of command responsibility and gross neglect of duty.  Last September, ten Chinese nationals and a Filipino were arrested during a police operation, while several other Chinese nationals were rescued. Police reported seizing P4.6 million in cash. However, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) later discovered irregularities in the operation.  The arrested individuals complained of arbitrary detention and the illegal confiscation of personal belongings not listed in the search warrant. Investigations revealed that police officers confiscated P27 million in cash not included in the warrant and intentionally omitted other valuables from the official inventory. The officers were also found to have planted firearms, attempted to destroy CCTV footage, and deactivated their body-worn cameras during the operation. The incident sparked a congressional investigation, revealing that the victims were held captive, deprived of their rights, and extorted for millions of pesos. At the time, the PNP has vowed to address the issue and take strict action against erring personnel. Read related article: Senator Sounds Alarm on Officials “Coaching” POGOs

Handoyo Salman, an Indonesian fugitive linked to Central One PH, has been deported. He was one of 42 foreigners nabbed from a suspected POGO in Bagac, Bataan. An Indonesian fugitive involved in the operations of a suspected Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Bagac, Bataan has been deported, the Bureau of Immigration announced on November 25, 2024.  The Indonesian, identified as Handoyo Salman, was allegedly wanted in connection with alleged scamming activities, money laundering, and online gambling. He was accused of orchestrating online scams that reportedly totaled 900 billion rupees, or roughly P3.3 billion. He has been transferred to Indonesian authorities.  Salman was also the team leader and operations of Central One Bataan.  READ: PAGCOR Denies Jurisdiction Over Raided BPO in Bataan According to the Bureau of Immigration (BI), as reported by GMA News, Salman was sent back to Indonesia on November 21, 2024. Salman was among 42 foreigners arrested during a raid on Central One PH, which operated as a business process outsourcing, but was accused of using this as a front for a POGO Hub.  According to a November 4 GMA News report, other foreigners arrested were Malaysians, Chinese, Thai, Pakistani, Bangladesh, Vietnamese, and Brazilians. READ: P112M Cash Found During Follow Up Ops vs. Raided Bataan BPO BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the rest of the foreigners are still undergoing deportation proceedings, clarifying that they have not been freed.  “All 41 foreign nationals are still registered in our system, with cases ongoing. Should they be found liable, they will also face deportation in accordance with Philippine law,” Viado said. Authorities raided Central One PH on October 31, 2024. The company's legal team questioned the operation's legitimacy, claiming that some of their cameras were tampered during the operation.  Former  PAOCC spokesman Winston Casio was also accused of slapping one of the company's employees during the raid. Casio has been relieved from the position, and has taken responsibility for the incident.  Read related article: PAOCC Relieves Spox Winston Casio For “Slapping” POGO Worker

Vice President Sara Duterte claims that recent statements regarding former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque has sparked speculations on his whereabouts. Speculations have surfaced regarding former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque allegedly leaving the Philippines amidst an ongoing investigation linking him to questionable activities involving Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).  This follows statements from Vice President Sara Duterte hinting at his possible departure. Authorities earlier described Roque as a “fugitive.”  "Look at Sec. Harry Roque, ayaw umalis non sa bansa kasi yung mga anak niya maiiwanan. Pero look at him, umalis na lang (Look at Sec. Harry Roque, didn't want to leave the country because his children would be left behind. But look at him now, he left anyway)," Vice President Duterte said, as reported by the Philippine Star.  "But no, hindi, bastos sila, bastos din kami (But no, they're rude, so we'll be rude too)," she added during her November 23, 2024 virtual press conference. The House of Representatives Quad Committee issued an arrest order for Harry Roque on September 12 after he failed to appear before the panel and submit documents related to an inquiry into his alleged unexplained wealth. The investigation links Roque to Lucky South 99, an alleged POGO based in Porac, Pampanga.  On August 6, Roque was placed under an Immigration Lookout Bulletin, which tracks international travel but does not restrict individuals from leaving the country. This loophole could have allowed Roque to depart despite ongoing legal scrutiny. Roque has denied being a fugitive, claiming he is not evading justice.  He has also been allegedly linked to the controversial Lucky South 99 POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga, which lawmakers are currently investigating.  Read related article: Supreme Court Denies Harry Roque Plea to Stop House Arrest

Metro Manila has a new police chief after a flawed raid on a suspected Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Ermita. A shakeup within the Philippine National Police (PNP) is underway as they named a new police chief for metropolitan Manila.  Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin was appointed chief of National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) starting November 23, 2024.  This comes in the wake of a controversial raid on a suspected POGO hub in Manila, which authorities earlier described as “flawed” due to the mishandling of the situation. Former NCRPO Chief Gen. Sidney Hernia and PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group Head Maj. Gen. Ronnie Francis Cariaga were both administratively relieved due to the incident.  Hernia has been reassigned to head the Area Police Command-Southern Luzon.  READ: Here’s why PAOCC described Manila POGO raid as “flawed” Both officers were administratively relieved due to allegations of misconduct and irregularities during the October 29 raid. The raid, which targeted a POGO hub in Ermita, Manila, involved the PNP-ACG and the NCRPO.  However, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has distanced itself from the operation, citing concerns about its execution. Police officers reportedly tampered with CCTV cameras during a post-raid probe at the hub.  The PAOCC has expressed disappointment over the release of 69 foreign nationals due to legal constraints imposed by the Bureau of Immigration. “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 released November 4. Read related article: 3 Cops Relieved for Tampering with CCTV in Manila POGO Raid

Senator Risa Hontiveros has raised concerns about government officials allegedly "coaching" POGOs on how to mask their continued operations. Senator Risa Hontiveros has raised concerns about government officials allegedly "coaching" offshore gaming hubs on how to disguise their continued operations. According to the senator, some officials are advising Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) to rebrand their activities as legitimate businesses, such as restaurants, resorts, or BPO firms. “POGOs are still operating, and they are getting more creative. They are finding ways to change or conceal their identity. We received reports that some government officials were the ones giving them such advice," Hontiveros revealed during a November 23, 2024 forum, as reported by Asia Gaming Brief. It can be recalled that Central One PH , a BPO company in Bataan, was raided by authorities due to suspicions of illegal POGO operations. During the raid, authorities discovered a significant amount of cash, estimated to be around P112 million. READ: P112M Cash Found During Follow Up Ops vs. Raided Bataan BPO The company has denied any wrongdoing, claiming the funds are for operational expenses. However, the arrest of foreign nationals linked to the company and the ongoing investigation have raised questions about the true nature of Central One PH's activities. She further warned those involved, stating, “It’s the phenomenon we are observing. No names have been given to us, but it’s clear that this is happening. Let this serve as a warning: If you’re involved, you know who you are. Stop it now." The issue of POGO operators masking their activities has also been echoed by Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, who noted instances where POGOs have disguised themselves as restaurants and resorts to evade scrutiny. Hontiveros stressed the gravity of these actions, cautioning that they could lead to severe legal repercussions for both the operators and complicit officials. She urged local governments to remain vigilant and adopt proactive measures to curb illegal POGO activities within their areas. “If the regulators and members of the executive mandated to enforce the law are the ones violating it, their accountability is even heavier,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of ethical governance in addressing this growing issue. Read related article: Raid in BPO Accused of POGO Operations Sparks Debate Over Enforcement Limits