SC investigates judicial compromise over POGO influence

The Supreme Court (SC) announced on Friday that it will investigate allegations of influence by individuals associated with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs over the country's judicial system.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian raised concerns after a raid in Porac, Pampanga, where only 158 suspects were arrested despite expectations to arrest more than 1,000, suggesting that criminals may have insiders within law enforcement and the judiciary who tipped them off before operations.

Dr. Winston Casio of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) indicated that information about the raid might have been leaked, leading a Bulacan court to deny another search warrant request due to technicality.

Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros vowed to investigate accountability for POGO operations in Porac and promised justice for victims of abuse and exploitation.

Hontiveros emphasized that anyone who collaborates with Chinese syndicates will face consequences, highlighting a connection between POGOs and criminal activities.

The SC's investigation aims to determine if the judiciary has been compromised by these gaming hubs, following revelations about possible leaks from law enforcement.

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