PNP Investigates Illegal POGO Operations in Central Luzon

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating the Regional Director of Central Luzon in connection with the emergence of illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in Bamban, Tarlac, and Porac, Pampanga. Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil announced the probe following reports of inadequate response to these illicit activities during a press briefing on Monday.

"We are indeed investigating the regional director regarding these reports where actions may not have been appropriately taken," Marbil stated, emphasizing accountability for regional directors.

Marbil also warned officers of disciplinary consequences if found involved in illegal POGO operations, stressing a zero-tolerance policy towards unlawful activities within the force.

Addressing concerns of police collusion with POGOs, Marbil clarified during the briefing that while some officials have been relieved due to suspected negligence, he refrained from labeling them as protectors outright.

"I hesitate to call them protectors because there are no protectors per se. We have an integrity monitoring group that oversees our personnel, aiming primarily to address inefficiencies among our officials," Marbil explained.

In recent operations, authorities uncovered alarming findings at a POGO hub in Porac, including torture implements and equipment for SIM card cloning and text spamming. Additionally, six Chinese nationals apprehended at the Bamban hub were discovered to be fugitives wanted in China for various offenses, including fraud and operating illegal gambling establishments.