The Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) recently stated that it is considering filing criminal charges against the owner of a commercial building in Parañaque City, which has been long leased to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO), and plans to legally confiscate the building to curb the spread of illegal gambling activities.
PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio pointed out that the building's owner, knowing that the tenants were engaged in illegal gambling activities, continued to provide the venue, and thus may face charges related to human trafficking.
Law enforcement investigations found that the building housed a large number of high-end computer equipment and had a high frequency of foreign personnel coming and going. Additionally, its monthly rent of 20 million pesos far exceeds the market price, further raising authorities' suspicions.
On February 22, PAOCC raided the ATI building in Parañaque City, arresting 435 individuals involved in POGO operations, including 136 Chinese nationals.
PAOCC revealed that the illegal POGO company was controlled by a well-known Chinese businessman. Law enforcement is intensifying efforts to confirm his identity and trace the sources of his funds and shareholder information.
Since the Philippine government's complete ban on POGO by the end of 2024, some operators have moved underground. Law enforcement has intensified its crackdown and launched multiple raids nationwide.
PAOCC warns that any property owner who condones illegal POGO operations not only faces severe penalties but may also lose property ownership. The government urges the public to actively report suspicious business activities to maintain public order.
