The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) uncovered illegal online gaming operations in Parañaque City. This discovery ultimately led to the arrest of 12 individuals.
After conducting a month-long surveillance operation, PAGCOR zeroed in on unauthorized online gambling activities. These were located inside a gated community in Parañaque. On Friday, the agency confirmed the raid through an official statement.
Working in close coordination, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group carried out the arrests. They acted alongside PAGCOR’s monitoring team.
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco revealed that the illegal site had been offering various online games. These included slot machines, live casino games, and e-sports.
During the operation, authorities seized eleven desktop computers, 21 mobile phones, two iPads, six laptops, and multiple flash drives. All items came from the suspects.
Moreover, PAGCOR’s Senior Vice President for the Security and Monitoring Cluster, Raul Villanueva, confirmed that the confiscated devices contained strong evidence. The data pointed to the group’s illicit gaming activities.
Authorities conducted the raid inside BF Northwest Subdivision. This upscale neighborhood houses some of Parañaque’s most prominent political and business figures.
Consequently, Villanueva stated that PAGCOR would file cases against the suspects. The agency will bring these charges before the Parañaque Regional Trial Court.
“This operation forms part of our broader and more aggressive campaign to crack down on illegal online gambling,” Villanueva said. “Chairman Tengco has issued a clear directive to eliminate these operations, and we fully intend to follow through.”
Furthermore, Villanueva emphasized that PAGCOR will continue working hand in hand with law enforcement agencies. These include the PNP and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency. Their shared goal is to dismantle such activities across the country.
In light of these events, he strongly advised the public to avoid illegal gaming platforms. He encouraged players to instead use legal, regulated alternatives.
“Most victims of these illegal sites are Filipino bettors,” he warned. “Unfortunately, these platforms expose players to scams, withheld winnings, and a total lack of accountability.”
PAGCOR also maintains close cooperation with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center. This body operates under the Department of Information and Communications Technology.
According to Villanueva, the agency has already placed numerous illegal operators under surveillance. It continues to identify more targets on a weekly basis.
Previously, PAGCOR tracked nearly 5,000 illegal online gaming sites operating across the country. Encouragingly, it has already blocked about 80 percent of them.
Nevertheless, Villanueva stressed the need for continuous monitoring and reporting. “We must protect our players, ensure proper taxation, and make sure gaming revenues support government programs,” he said.
Finally, Villanueva reiterated that only licensed operators provide security, reliable payouts, and tax compliance. “Illegal operators simply cannot be trusted,” he emphasized. “They avoid regulation, exploit Filipino players, and undermine our industry’s integrity. So if you want a safe gaming experience, always play on legal and licensed platforms.”
