PNP chief warns police against protecting illegal POGOs, orders crackdown

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil warned police officers that they will face disciplinary actions if found protecting illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

Marbil emphasized the importance of integrity and accountability in public service, stating that engaging in illegal activities related to POGOs will result in serious consequences.

The PNP intensified its efforts against illegal POGOs, leading to successful operations by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG).

In Western Visayas, Lt. Col. Arnel Solis of Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) stated that no POGO activities have been monitored in the region.

However, Brig. Gen. Jose Hidalgo Jr., chief of PRO-Central Luzon, remains under investigation for his accountability over unreported killings at illegal POGO hubs in his area.

The Pampanga province police director and Porac police chief were relieved from their posts following allegations of 'unreported killings' of foreigners at raided POGO sites.

PNP Chief Marbil stressed that inefficiency among officials will not be tolerated as part of efforts to safeguard public safety and combat complex criminal networks.