Philippine Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Online Gaming Operation in Cebu

Major Raid in Lapu-Lapu City

On Saturday, a joint task force led by the Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) executed a raid on a facility located within the Tourist Garden Hotel in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

The operation targeted what authorities described as an illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO).

According to Winston Casio, spokesperson for PAOCC, the facility was allegedly involved in Internet-based criminal activities, specifically illegal online gaming.

Evidence of Illegal Activities

Mr. Casio reported that the raided site was operating as a “100-percent illegal POGO,” a term now synonymous with Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs). He stated, “We’ve seen enough evidence to be able to file a cybercrime offence, for facilitating cybercrime-related gambling, [and] cybercrime-related qualified trafficking.”

The discovery included makeshift workstations where the detained individuals were allegedly conducting illegal online gaming operations.

International Implications and Diplomatic Involvement

The raid followed a request from the Indonesian Embassy, prompted by the escape of three Indonesian nationals from the complex.

This highlights the international dimensions of the issue, with foreign nationals being central to the operations and the subsequent legal actions.

The detained individuals are expected to be transported to Manila, where they will face inquest proceedings for violating immigration laws.

Calls for Accountability

Norman Tansingco, Commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration, emphasized the need for accountability beyond the detained individuals.

He suggested that resort owners who knowingly allow their properties to be used for illegal activities should also face charges.

“We will suggest to the authorities to file cases against resort owners that allow their properties to be used by illegal aliens in their covert operations,” Tansingco said.

Government’s Stance on Offshore Gaming

This raid is part of a broader crackdown on illegal online gaming in the Philippines, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s announcement in July that offshore gaming operations would need to cease by the end of the year.

The President has criticized POGOs for engaging in activities far removed from legitimate gaming, signaling a strong governmental stance against such operations.

Tansingco reinforced this position, stating, “This will serve as a warning to those who might attempt to start illegal online gambling operations, which has already been banned by the President.”