PAOCC investigates POGO-related crimes in Pasay, Lapu-lapu, Parañaque

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) is investigating possible criminal liability of local government officials in Pasay City and Lapu-lapu City related to raids on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs.

In addition, PAOCC is considering filing criminal cases against the owner of a building in Parañaque City used by an illegal POGO hub for two years.

Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano condemned PAOCC's statements and emphasized her city’s zero-tolerance policy towards POGOs.

The investigation, involving the Department of Justice and DILG, focuses on permits and business licenses issued by local government units, particularly those involved in issuing mayor's permits and business certificates.

During a raid at the ATI building in Parañaque, 435 POGO workers were arrested including 148 foreign nationals; PAOCC is identifying beneficial owners of Dan Ying Gaming Corp., allegedly owned by a Filipino-Chinese businessman.

More than 11,000 foreign POGO workers remain in the Philippines despite last year’s government directive to leave, facing deportation charges.