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A follow-up raid in Central One PH, a BPO firm allegedly tied to illegal POGOs in Bataan, resulted in PNP finding P112 million cash in its vaults. Authorities uncovered a staggering P112 million in cash during a follow-up raid on Central One PH, a business process outsourcing (BPO) company suspected of operating an illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Bagac, Bataan. The Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG), Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), and Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) executed a court order to open 14 vaults within the Bataan facility. This operation was part of an ongoing investigation into the company's alleged involvement in illegal online gambling. The seizure of the substantial amount of cash has fueled speculation about the extent of Central One PH's POGO activities. The company, which employs over 1,600 individuals, has maintained its innocence, claiming the funds are for operational expenses, salaries, and supplier payments. READ: Senator Warns Ex-POGO Workers Starting Firms for Online Scams However, the arrest of five foreign nationals, including Indonesian fugitive Handoyo Salman, who is accused of fraud and money laundering, has further implicated the company in illicit activities. Salman, reportedly the head of the company's budget department, is believed to have played a key role in the alleged POGO operation. Law enforcement agencies are now scrutinizing the seized cash and documents to gather evidence and build a strong case against Central One PH. The recovered items will be transported to Camp Crame in Quezon City before being presented in court in Malolos, Bulacan. Central One PH has asserted its cooperation with authorities and has witnessed the execution of the break-open order. Specialized tools were employed to open the vaults, a process that was carefully monitored by law enforcement officials. Central One PH has earlier maintained that it was operating a BPO office and had denied any human trafficking operations.  Read related article: 700 Filipinos Rescued from Bataan POGO Hub Involved in Scams

Senator Risa Hontiveros says LGUs are "liable" if they fail to detect Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in their jurisdiction. Senator Risa Hontiveros has issued a stern warning to local government units (LGUs), saying they could be held "liable" if they fail to detect and address the operations of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) within their jurisdictions. This statement follows recent reports revealing that some POGOs are trying to evade detection by disguising their activities as legitimate businesses, such as restaurants and resorts. Hontiveros was responding to comments made by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, who disclosed that certain POGOs were attempting to circumvent the ongoing POGO ban by using these "disguises" to operate under the radar. She said that LGUs have a significant responsibility in detecting these illegal operations, and their failure to do so could result in serious consequences. “LGUs have liabilities, and even the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and other departments mentioned in a hearing that they are looking forward to the amendment of the local government code to strengthen the power of the DILG and LGUs to identify, investigate, probe, and discipline local government officials who are providing legal cover to Pogos,” Hontiveros said during the Kapihan sa Senado forum on November 21, 2024.  This warning from the senator comes amid increasing concerns about the tactics being used by POGOs to evade the government’s efforts to shut them down. Earlier, Hontiveros had highlighted an alarming rise in "guerilla scam operations," which are suspected of being linked to POGO activities, further complicating the situation. These emerging scams are believed to be taking advantage of the confusion surrounding the Pogo crackdown. In July, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced a ban on Pogo operations in the Philippines, citing concerns over the negative impact of these operations on the country’s economy and society. During his third State of the Nation Address, Marcos instructed the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to wind down and cease all Pogo activities by the end of 2024. This move was seen as a response to growing public frustration with the presence of Pogos, which were frequently associated with illegal activities, including online gambling, human trafficking, and financial scams. READ:   President Marcos Signs Executive Order 74 Enforcing POGO Ban Hontiveros emphasized that LGUs must be proactive in investigating and uncovering any POGO operations in their areas, as well as holding accountable those who may be turning a blind eye to these activities.  “LGUs have liabilities and even the DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government) and other departments mentioned in a hearing that they are looking forward to the amendment of the local government code to strengthen the power of the DILG and LGUs to identify, investigate, probe, and discipline local government officials who are providing legal cover to POGOs,” Senator Hontiveros was quoted as saying in an Inquirer report. In addition to the potential liabilities for LGUs, Hontiveros noted that there are ongoing efforts within the DILG to amend the local government code. These changes would grant the department and LGUs more power to investigate and take action against officials who may be involved in shielding POGO operations. This amendment aims to ensure that local government units have the necessary authority and tools to crack down on these illegal activities.  Hontiveros’s call for stronger enforcement by LGUs highlights the need for a more coordinated approach to tackling Pogo-related issues across the country. She believes that local government units must be held accountable for ensuring that illegal operations are identified and shut down promptly.   Read related article: PAGCOR Calls For Vigilance Amid POGOs “Masquerading” As BPOs

Online gambling has affected 960,000 high school and college students in Indonesia based on data from the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology. Approximately 960,000 high school and college students in Indonesia are involved in online gambling activities, a government official said.  "The number of students who are involved in online gambling reaches 960 thousand to date," Indonesian Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Satryo Soemantri Brodjonegoro disclosed this during a press conference held on November 21, 2024, as reported by ANTARA News Agency.  The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is undertaking measures to address the pervasive issue of online gambling among university students. As part of this endeavor, a dedicated online reporting channel is being established. This channel will be mandatory for all public and private universities, providing a platform for students to report instances of online gambling and seek support. READ: Online Casino Addiction Among South Korean Teens Soars "The ministry instructs every leader of public and private universities to prevent the participation of lecturers, students, and educators in online gambling," Brodjonegoro shared.  Online gambling is currently illegal in Indonesia, and authorities are working to block bank accounts of authorities who are linked to online gambling, while mounting information campaigns to crack down against illegal betting. READ: Younger Casino Crowd Growing with Gaming Innovations Government data also noted that some 380,000 online gambling sites in Indonesia have been shut down since October. “If we count from October 20, or the start of the new government,” the number of sites closed “has reached around 380,000," Meutya Hafid, communication and digital affairs minister said as quoted by Indonesian news site Bernama.  So far, Indonesia's central bank has said it will also freeze bank accounts affiliated with online gambling.  "Payment service providers, both banks and non-bank must have fraud detection systems to identify accounts used for online gambling transactions and other forms of fraud," central bank governor Juda Agung shared at a press conference, as reported by Bernala last November 21.  These accounts will be frozen. So far, some 7,500 bank accounts linked to onine gambling have been frozen. The central bank is also committing to information drives discouraging the public from gambling.  Malaysia's The Star also reported that around 104,819 sites related to online gambling were shut down since they formed a task force on online gambling eradication.  Read related story: Illegal Online Gambling Cases In Korea Triple Since COVID

The Philippine National Police found devices in the Ermita POGO hub that were allegedly used in cryptocurrency and scam activities. The Philippine National Police (PNP) has uncovered evidence linking a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hub in Manila to illegal activities involving cryptocurrencies and scams. This revelation comes after a digital forensic examination was conducted on devices seized during a high-profile raid on October 29, 2024 at the Vertex Technologies office in Century Peak Tower, Ermita. Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, PNP spokesperson, confirmed that investigators had already found significant evidence related to scam operations and cryptocurrency transactions, which were the focus of the cyber-warrant that authorized the raid. "Mayroon na silang nakita na mga ebidensya ng alleged and reported scamming activities and even yung mga cryptocurrencies, which is really the subject ng kanilang cyber-warrant (They have already found evidence of alleged and reported scamming activities, as well as cryptocurrencies, which are the main subject of the cyber-warrant)," Fajardo was quoted as saying by the Inquirer during a press briefing at Camp Crame. READ: Chinese Nationals Accuse PNP of Extorting P4M in POGO Raid Fajardo elaborated on the specifics of the investigation, mentioning that the forensic examination was ongoing, but early findings have already pointed to violations of the Securities Regulation Code, which governs financial transactions and investments. The presence of cryptocurrencies, commonly used in illicit transactions due to their anonymity, adds weight to the suspicion of illegal financial activity. The October raid was led by the PNP's Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) in collaboration with the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), executed under a cyber-warrant targeting Vertex Technologies, a company allegedly involved in love and cryptocurrency scams. These scams are often designed to lure individuals into fraudulent financial schemes by exploiting emotions or promising high returns on investments in digital currencies. Vertex Technologies is believed to have been operating out of the 23rd floor of Century Peak Tower, a commercial building in Ermita. The company allegedly used sophisticated technology to run their operations, targeting foreign nationals and convincing them to invest in fake or non-existent cryptocurrency projects. As part of their investigation, the police have also been examining the devices and IT-related equipment seized during the raid, looking for further evidence of criminal activity. While the investigation is still in its early stages, Fajardo assured the public that once the forensic examination is complete, formal charges will be filed against the company’s operators and directors. These charges could include violations of the Securities Regulation Code, as well as other potential crimes related to fraud and cybercrime. Read related article: Century Peak Alleges Unwarranted Raid, Plans To Sue PNP

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will aid human trafficking victims within the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) industry. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is intensifying its commitment to aid victims of human trafficking, with a particular focus on those exploited within the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) industry.  READ: Alice Guo Pleads Not Guilty to Human Trafficking Charges The department's Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP) offers comprehensive support to these individuals, addressing their multifaceted needs, including psychosocial, social, and economic concerns.  This program is pivotal in helping victims rebuild their lives and recover from the traumatic experiences they have endured. READ: 23 Women Rescued From POGO-Linked Sex Trafficking Ring Senator Imee Marcos underscored the significance of the RRPTP during recent deliberations on the 2025 budget. In response to queries regarding government initiatives to combat human trafficking, the senator emphasized the program's crucial role in assisting victims. The RRPTP aims to facilitate the complete recovery and reintegration of trafficked individuals into society. The POGO industry has been implicated in various forms of human trafficking, encompassing both labor and sex trafficking.  Numerous individuals, often lured by promises of lucrative employment opportunities, find themselves ensnared in exploitative circumstances. Reports indicate that these workers are subjected to excessive work hours, deplorable working conditions, and physical as well as psychological abuse. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. previously signed Executive Order  74  banning POGOs, citing their potential for exploitation. However, some lawmakers expressed skepticism, arguing that certain measures within the proclamation were ambiguous and could lead to loopholes. Despite these concerns, the government's efforts to combat human trafficking and provide support to victims remain a priority. Read related article: Chinese National Coerces Women into Sexual Services for POGO Clients

Top PNP officials remain relieved over a raid on an alleged Manila scam hub. The raid was controversial due to suspected extortion and CCTV tampering. The administrative leave of top Philippine National Police (PNP) officials implicated in a controversial raid on an alleged scam hub in Manila has been extended until November 22, 2024. PNP Spokesperson Brigadier General Jean Fajardo confirmed the extension, citing the ongoing investigation into the incident. The initial 10-day relief order, which was set to expire on November 17, has been extended to allow for a more thorough probe. READ: PNP Chief Vows: No More POGOs in 2025 The raid on Vertex Technologies in Ermita, Manila, conducted under a cyber-warrant, has sparked controversy due to allegations of extortion against the apprehended Chinese nationals. Major General Sidney Hernia, Director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), and Major General Ronnie Cariaga, Director of the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), were initially relieved from their posts to facilitate the investigation. READ: Chinese Nationals Accuse PNP of Extorting P4M in POGO Raid The   Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC)   has criticized the operation, labeling it "flawed" for the absence of PAOCC personnel and the alleged mishandling of the apprehended individuals. PAOCC officials expressed concern over reports that some foreign nationals were released without proper legal process. The PAOCC's criticism stems from its mandate to combat organized crime and corruption. By not involving the agency in the operation, the PNP may have missed opportunities to gather crucial evidence and identify potential criminal networks. The PNP leadership continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as the investigation progresses. Read related article: 3 Cops Relieved for Tampering with CCTV in Manila POGO Raid

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has already profiled the 30,567 workers who will be affected by the POGO ban. Thousands of Filipino workers will be affected by the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ban all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). During a hearing of the House Committee on Games and Amusement, lawmakers were informed that over 30,000 employees would lose their jobs as a result of the POGO ban . As of the latest report from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), a total of 30,567 workers have been identified as being directly affected by the shutdown of the POGO industry in the country. These workers include those employed in various positions within the POGO sector, from customer service and administrative roles to technical and support staff. Additionally, the ban will also indirectly impact 2,777 workers whose jobs are connected to the POGO industry, such as those in the supply chain, transportation, and local services sectors. “The number of Filipino workers affected by the banning of Pogos is around 27,790; this is for the direct Filipino workers. For indirect Filipino workers, we have profiled 2,777,” DOLE representative John Enrico Abiad was quoted as saying in an Inquirer report. The department's efforts to profile the affected workforce have already begun, helping to assess the scope of the ban’s economic impact on employees nationwide. President Marcos first announced the intention to ban POGOs during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July 2024. In his speech, the president emphasized the need to crack down on illegal activities linked to POGOs, such as human trafficking and other criminal offenses, while also addressing the negative impact the industry has had on public order and local communities. The Philippine government has long been concerned about the operations of POGOs, especially the influx of foreign workers and their contribution to rising crime rates in areas with large POGO hubs.  READ: PAOCC Warns of “POGO Politics” as 2025 Elections Approach In response to the growing concerns about POGOs, the president ordered the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to oversee the gradual closure of these operations. PAGCOR, which regulates gaming operations in the country, has been tasked with ensuring that all POGO activities cease by the end of 2024. According to PAGCOR chief Alejandro Tengco, the agency has already begun working on the transition and will be coordinating with DOLE to assist the workers affected by the closure. "DOLE has been instructed to support the affected workers by helping them find new employment opportunities before the end of 2024,” said Tengco. He further clarified that the process of winding down POGO operations would not happen abruptly but will be a phased shutdown, allowing affected employees time to adjust to the changing job landscape. To aid in this transition, DOLE is preparing to roll out an employment facilitation program that will provide assistance to workers seeking new jobs. The department’s public employment services offices (PESOs) across the country will be on hand to connect displaced workers with potential employers. The program is part of DOLE’s broader efforts to help workers affected by closures, layoffs, and other disruptions in the labor market. This initiative is part of the government's commitment to ensuring that workers are not left behind in the face of industry shifts. DOLE has also encouraged employers in non-POGO industries to consider hiring some of the displaced workers, particularly those with skills in customer service, administration, and technical fields. The closure of POGOs, while having significant economic implications, has also sparked debates within various sectors of Philippine society. Proponents of the ban argue that the closure of the POGO industry will improve public order and reduce criminal activities linked to the sector, including human trafficking and illegal gambling. However, critics of the move point to the economic consequences, including the loss of income for thousands of workers and the potential decline in tax revenues generated by POGO operations. Read related article: 60% of Filipinos Support POGO Ban: Survey

PAGCOR has raised concerns over offshore online gaming operators masquerading as business process outsourcing (BPO) companies. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has raised concerns over offshore online gaming operators (POGOs) disguising themselves as business process outsourcing (BPO) companies. PAGCOR emphasized the need for stringent measures to address these illegal operations. “To effectively address illegal gaming operations [in the Philippines], companies that misuse the BPO designation must also be scrutinized and held accountable,” PAGCOR stated in a press release quoted by GGR Asia. This issue gained prominence following the October 31, 2024 raid on Central One Bataan PH Inc., a company identified as a BPO. Local authorities suspected the firm of involvement in human trafficking and illegal online gaming activities, leading to legal debates over its operations. Regulators fear that these companies are exploiting the vast BPO industry in the Philippines.  READ: PAGCOR Urged to Assist in Returning Expats of Closed POGOs In its statement, PAGCOR clarified its jurisdictional authority over gaming activities. While the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) oversees certain tourism-related initiatives, its ability to regulate “games, amusements, recreational and sports activities” requires PAGCOR’s approval and supervision. PAGCOR asserted: “While the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan may regulate specific activities and exercise authority within its jurisdiction, its power to issue licenses for gaming operations remains conditional and subject to PAGCOR’s oversight and approval.” Furthermore, the regulator noted that Central One Bataan is not licensed by PAGCOR to conduct online gaming activities. In November 2024, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Executive Order No. 74 , effectively banning Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and Integrated Gaming Licensees (IGLs). The order aims to curb illegal gaming activities and address related issues such as human trafficking and money laundering.  Marcos emphasized the need to protect the nation’s interests and improve law enforcement in the gaming sector, while allowing certain exceptions for legitimate operations under strict guidelines. Read related article: PAGCOR Denies Jurisdiction Over Raided BPO in Bataan

This is despite Roque's claims that he was willing to participate in the preliminary investigation of the Department of Justice (DOJ). Harry Roque failed to attend the preliminary investigation on his qualified human trafficking case in connection with illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO). The former presidential spokesperson failed to show up on November 18, 2024 despite his claims that he was willing to participate in the preliminary investigation of the Department of Justice (DOJ).   READ: Harry Roque’s Wife to Be Arrested for Contempt Justice department prosecutor Eugene Yusi said Roque had not submitted a counter-affidavit at the preliminary investigation despite being informed of the case.  “If he fails to appear or participate in the preliminary investigation, the complaint will be resolved based on the complaint and the evidence annexed to the complaint,” Yusi said in an ambush interview, as quoted by the Philippine Star.  Roque is being probed for his involvement in the operations of Lucky South 99 . Roque, a former human rights lawyer, was listed in Lucky South 99's organizational chart as their "legal." In response, Roque claimed he did not receive a subpoena.   “[I] did not get any subpoena to attend from DOJ (Department of Justice) and hence I did not. Further, I've not been furnished with complaint affidavits of PAOCC [Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission],” Roque said in a message to Philstar.com. READ : House Panel Pushes for Harry Roque's Surrender, Cites Urgency The complaint involves Lucky South 99 representative Cassandra Li Ong and around 50  other respondents. During investigations, Roque's signature was found on documents linked to the POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga. However, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) clarified that the document had no criminal implications, stating it might have been part of Roque's legal consultancy work unrelated to the alleged illegal activities. Roque has denied involvement in the illegal POGO operations, emphasizing his work as a lawyer was legitimate.  Roque has notoriously skipped hearings regarding his link with POGOs, including a House Quadcomm Hearing on August 17, in which he was detained. As described by Asia Gaming Brief last September, he has referred to himself as a "political detainee," claiming that the current administration is targeting him because of his outspoken support for the Dutertes, who were previously part of the ruling coalition. Lawmakers have since considered him a fugitive since he has been hiding. He has also been cited in contempt in September for failing to submit documents documents connected to its investigation into POGOs.  Read related article: PNP: Harboring Harry Roque May Lead to Obstruction Charges

23 women, including minors, were rescued from sex trafficking in Tondo, Manila. Victims were offered to Chinese nationals working in POGO hubs. Twenty-three women, including six minors, were rescued from a harrowing ordeal of sexual exploitation in a recent NBI operation in Tondo, Manila. These young women were being offered to Chinese nationals employed in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) hubs. The NBI, acting on reports of rampant illegal activity linked to an individual known only as "Mika," launched a targeted raid on the establishment, according to a report by the Philippine Star.  Read: PAOCC Raids Illegal POGO Near Senate, Arrests 200 POGO Workers Mika's scheme involved a disturbingly calculated process: posting explicit photos of the victims online, luring them to a resort, while subjecting them to a degrading selection process where they were forced to swim for the approval of foreign clients. The victims hailed from various regions including Pasig, Caloocan, Quezon City, and Pampanga, and were being trafficked to clients of diverse nationalities.  Chinese nationals were the primary target of this trafficking ring. The financial implications of this exploitation were staggering, with Chinese nationals paying exorbitant sums of P10,000 to P15,000 for each victim's services. NBI agent Jerome Hernandez led a sting operation that culminated in Mika's arrest. The suspect was apprehended after accepting marked money, providing concrete evidence of the illicit activities. The rescued minors are now under the protective care of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Meanwhile, Mika faces the prospect of severe criminal charges.  This rescue operation highlights the ongoing issue of human trafficking and the importance of addressing this serious crime. It emphasizes the need for increased law enforcement efforts, public awareness campaigns, and support services for victims to protect vulnerable individuals and hold perpetrators accountable. Read Related Article: Chinese Nationals Accuse PNP of Extorting P4M in POGO Raid

The PH government is urged to repurpose seized Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs as evacuation centers for those displaced by natural disasters. A lawmaker urged the government to repurpose seized Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs as temporary evacuation centers for families displaced by natural disasters. Former Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares highlighted the potential of POGO hubs in strategic locations such as Bamban, Porac, Bataan, Bulacan, and Cagayan. These facilities, known for their spaciousness and modern amenities, could provide immediate relief to evacuees during times of crisis. He pointed out that these structures can provide immediate relief for evacuees. Instead of leaving them idle, Colmenares said the government should maximize their use to save lives and ensure the safety of families fleeing the storm. The proposal comes as the nation awaits the passage of the Permanent Evacuation Centers Bill, a crucial piece of legislation aimed at establishing dedicated facilities for disaster response. Colmenares believes that POGO hubs, with their medical centers and ample space, could serve as suitable emergency shelters. Colmenares expressed concerns about holding classes in the compounds “due to potential psychological trauma from past activities”, citing the alleged human trafficking, torture, and investment scams that took place in these locations.  However, he noted that the compounds could serve as effective temporary evacuation centers, as many are equipped with medical clinics and offer ample space. To further enhance preparedness efforts, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has assured residents in Northern Luzon that their transmission lines and facilities will maintain normal operations. “When Bayan Muna authored the Disaster Alerts Law we believe it would help warn the people thru text that a typhoon or calamity is coming. Now we have to take care of typhoon victims during the typhoon by providing them with decent shelters," said Atty. Colmenares. The Philippine government earlier floated a proposal to repurpose raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs into facilities that serve public needs, such as schools and government offices.  Read related article:   Raided POGO Hubs to Be Repurposed as Schools, Gov’t Buildings

PAGCOR confirmed it has no jurisdiction over Central One PH, an AFAB-regulated BPO firm in Bataan. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has clarified that it has no regulatory authority over Central One PH in Bataan, which was raided by authorities due to allegations of human trafficking and illegal gambling operations.  Central One Bataan, the BPO firm in question, was subjected to a raid in late October on suspicions of illegal activities, including online gambling and cryptocurrency scams. However, PAGCOR has emphasized that its regulatory role does not extend to the company. The BPO operates under a license issued by the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), an independent government agency responsible for overseeing economic activities within the Freeport Area of Bataan. Central One Bataan has since challenged the legality of the raid, asserting that its operations are fully compliant with the laws and regulations governing its business activities. Central One PH has been the subject of controversy following a raid by law enforcement authorities in late October. The raid, conducted by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), was based on a warrant alleging fraudulent activities such as online gambling and cryptocurrency scams.    However, Central One PH has vehemently denied these allegations, insisting that it is a legitimate BPO company operating under a license from the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB). The company has also filed a motion to quash the search warrant used in the raid, arguing that it was invalid.    Critics argue that the PAOCC's actions were hasty and lacked sufficient evidence to justify the forceful entry and seizure of property. Furthermore, the behavior of some PAOCC operatives, including a slapping incident  against a Central One PH employee, has further tarnished the agency's reputation. Central One PH has taken legal action against the PAOCC, filing a motion to quash the search warrant and seeking accountability for the alleged misconduct of its agents.