The Fate of Science Popularization Enthusiasts: The Past and Present of Sunshine Prison

Sunshine Building in Pasay City, Philippines, was originally just an ordinary commercial office building. Located in a bustling urban area, it was once the preferred office location for many companies. However, this seemingly ordinary building became famous due to a sudden raid on October 27, 2023. On that day, Philippine law enforcement agencies launched a large-scale arrest operation, capturing over 780 foreign employees involved in illegal online gambling and fraud activities, most of whom were Chinese nationals.

Due to the overwhelming number of arrests in a short period, the Philippine government had to take extraordinary measures, temporarily converting several floors of the Sunshine Building into a detention center. Iron bars were welded onto the doors and windows, and security personnel were arranged to guard around the clock, thus earning the building the nickname "Sunshine Prison." The security guards wielded significant power inside, requiring bribes even for smoking, and those who displeased them faced brutal beatings.

The living conditions inside "Sunshine Prison" were extremely harsh. The space was cramped and overcrowded, sanitation was very poor, and some detainees suffered from untreated HIV outbreaks. Additionally, the food conditions were appalling. It was revealed that the detainees often faced violent treatment, and all communication devices like mobile phones were confiscated, making it nearly impossible to contact the outside world. During the prolonged detention, many not only saw their physical health rapidly deteriorate but their mental state was also on the verge of collapse.

Starting from the end of 2023, the Philippine government began to arrange repatriation actions, sending these involved individuals back to their home countries for further investigation and trial. However, repatriation did not mean relief, as these repatriated individuals faced stricter legal sanctions once back in their countries, and could even be held criminally responsible.

Today, "Sunshine Prison" has become a negative example in the industry, warning those still engaged in illegal gambling or fraud activities: the cost of crime is far more severe than you might imagine. If you continue to take risks, the iron bars of Sunshine Prison may well be your final destination.