PNP Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil has reaffirmed the Philippine National Police’s unwavering commitment to dismantling all illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs. With only two months left in the year, he emphasized that the PNP would step up its efforts. The police force aims to shut down every unlicensed operation nationwide.
General Marbil praised the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) for executing a high-impact operation at Century Peak Tower in Manila. Authorities dubbed this site the “mother of all scam hubs.” Marbil also stressed the urgency of removing similar illegal POGO establishments from the country as quickly as possible.
“We have two months left to put an end to these illegal POGO operations,” Marbil declared. His statement echoed the administration’s call for decisive action.
Earlier, in his State of the Nation Address last July, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. mandated the complete closure of the POGO industry by the end of 2024. He cited the sector’s links to crimes such as human trafficking, investment fraud, and romance scams, calling the social cost of continued operation far too high.
Just last week, the PNP-ACG conducted a major raid at Vertex Technology Corporation. Authorities suspected the site served as a hub for romance and cryptocurrency scams. They arrested 69 foreign nationals, including 34 Indonesians, 25 Chinese, and 10 Malaysians.
“This operation not only reveals the vast reach of illegal POGO activities,” Marbil said, “but also underscores law enforcement’s dedication to dismantling criminal networks, ensuring public safety, and upholding the rule of law through effective cyber enforcement.”
Marbil commended the ACG team for their dedication and results. He described the court-sanctioned operation as a strong example of the PNP-ACG’s relentless pursuit of justice. According to him, the team disrupted a significant network involved in illegal gambling, online scams, and human trafficking.
He also confirmed that authorities will file charges against those involved. While forensic experts continue analyzing seized digital evidence, the PNP will intensify collaboration with other law enforcement bodies. Marbil noted that the PNP will work closely with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and other relevant agencies to ensure the full closure of all illegal POGO operations.
Meanwhile, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna expressed strong support for the crackdown. She commended the PNP’s commitment to public safety and highlighted the importance of their actions in protecting Manila’s communities from cybercrime and exploitation. The PNP Public Information Office (PIO) welcomed the mayor’s remarks and emphasized the value of unified local and national efforts.
In a related development, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) also conducted a major operation. Last Thursday, authorities raided a POGO hub in Bagac, Bataan. They detained 57 foreign nationals and 358 Filipinos as part of the coordinated crackdown on illegal operations.
As year-end approaches, General Marbil assured the public that the PNP remains fully engaged in its mission. He reiterated that the police force will leave no illegal POGO hub standing, reinforcing both national security and public trust in the process.
