PNP chief orders probe into unverified POGO bribery claims

Former Philippine National Police (PNP) chiefs have expressed concern over unverified reports that one of their members accepted bribes from Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), as revealed during a Senate hearing on Wednesday.

Senator Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa, a former PNP chief himself, said the revelation has caused distress among retired PNP leaders who are now living peacefully and have formed a group chat to discuss their concerns.

Dela Rosa criticized the disclosure of unverified information by PAGCOR Senior Vice President Raul Villanueva, urging him to clarify the allegations before releasing them publicly.

PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil ordered a thorough investigation into the allegations and directed the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to coordinate with PAGCOR for further details.

Some former PNP chiefs, including Generals Benjamin Acorda, Rodolfo Azurin, and Oscar Albayalde, denied any links to Guo or involvement in POGO operations, urging Villanueva to identify the individual referred to in his statements.