PAOCC: 300 POGOs operating illegally

Around 300 Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) are operating illegally in the Philippines, according to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).

These entities likely had prior licenses but did not reapply due to violations, thus avoiding regulation by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor).

PAOCC Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz expressed skepticism that local government units would be unaware of these "POGO hubs," citing obvious indicators such as brightly lit buildings at night and the presence of many foreigners.

The Grand Palazzo Royale in Porac, Pampanga, a sprawling compound that houses a resort, golf course, and country club, was turned into a self-sustaining estate by three interconnected companies in 2019, hosting Lucky South 99, a POGO whose workers claimed to have been trafficked and tortured.

Lucky South 99 has engaged the services of Dennis Cunanan, a convicted pork barrel scam player, for its corporate communications and government relations.

Local government officials implicated in illegal POGO activities are currently under investigation by the Department of Interior and Local Government.

Recent discoveries at Lucky South 99 include supposed Chinese service uniforms, one with the logo of the Chinese People's Armed Police, raising questions about potential ties to Chinese officialdom and serving as a counterpoint to the tunnels found in another POGO compound in Bamban, Tarlac.