PNP CIDG arrests 1,886, closes 4 POGO/IGLs in Feb

In February 2025, the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG) arrested a total of 1,886 individuals.

Of these arrests, 459 were foreigners, including 429 linked to illegal operations of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO) and internet gaming licensees (IGLs).

The CIDG conducted 1,047 law enforcement operations focusing on issues such as wanted persons, loose firearms, criminal gangs, fake medical practitioners, environmental crimes, counterfeiting, illicit LPG production, smuggled cigarettes, infringed footwear, adulterated cooking oil, and illegal practice of medicine.

Confiscations included 128 firearms, 9,015 explosives, assorted magazines, 1,708 rounds of ammunition, and evidence worth approximately PHP 195.5 million.

The CIDG also reported the closure of four POGO and IGL facilities in February as part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s total ban on offshore gaming operations effective December 31, 2024.

CIDG chief Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III assured the public that his team is steadfast in enforcing laws and preventing crimes to ensure justice for all victims.