Authorities raid Makati skyscraper, find evidence of illegal POGO scams

On Thursday evening, authorities raided 21 floors of an office skyscraper in Makati's Central Business District following reports of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) scam activities.

The operation involved officials from the Makati BPLO, Makati Police, PNP-CIDG, DOJ-OOC, and PAOCC who found abandoned workstations but no personnel.

PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz confirmed that intelligence indicated these companies were operating as illegal POGOs and scam centers.

Despite signs of recent activity such as warm food and cold air conditioning, all foreigners had apparently left in a hurry before the raid.

DOJ-OOC Head Agent Inna Protacio-Ladislao noted evidence suggesting Filipino involvement in scams, contrary to previous assumptions that only foreigners were involved.

A Chinese national who claimed to be part of the raided Lucky South99 POGO surrendered during the operation and will face further investigation and possible deportation.