PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio has been dismissed for allegedly assaulting an employee of a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO). The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) confirmed on Tuesday that its spokesperson, Winston Casio, is under investigation for allegedly assaulting a POGO employee, leading to his dismissal.
PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz ordered Casio in a memo to explain the alleged "abuse" of a POGO employee during a raid in Bagac, Bataan Province on October 31. The memo dated November 4 mentioned that a video of the incident is circulating on social media.
It instructed Casio to submit a written explanation within 24 hours.
PAOCC issued a memo on Monday, requiring him to submit a written explanation within 24 hours.
The memo also informed Casio that he "is relieved of his duties as PAOCC spokesperson, effective immediately, until the investigation is completed."
The memo stated: "The incident occurred after the execution of a search warrant at the location, has reportedly been recorded, and the video is now circulating on social media platforms."
"Your immediate response is crucial as it will greatly influence the office's consideration of any subsequent actions. You must understand that failure to provide an explanation will be considered a waiver of your right to participate in this process," the memo added.
Casio explained that during the October 31 raid, the Filipino POGO workers were told they could go home together, "as we could not possibly detain 950 Filipinos in our facility."
Casio said that after this statement, the workers erupted in "noisy and rowdy" cheers. He said he sent a PAOCC staff member to check the situation, but a POGO worker allegedly cursed at the officer and gave him the middle finger.
Casio said he summoned the POGO worker and reprimanded him for disrespecting PAOCC. He said he gave the worker two options: face an unfair harassment complaint or get slapped twice.
"I said, 'Well, I won't sue you, but I will slap you a few times.' He said, 'Sir, just one slap.' So I slapped him once, and it turned into three," Casio said.
The official admitted his actions were wrong.
"I admit I was wrong, and I confess honestly and fairly."
"I admit I was wrong, and I am willing to face the consequences," he added.
Casio said that while he is considering resigning, "ultimately, my responsibility is greater."
"We were tasked to end these fraudulent activities. If I truly take responsibility, it essentially means I am allowing those criminals and scammers to succeed," the official said.
The online gambling industry is associated with financial fraud, kidnapping, prostitution, human trafficking, torture, and murder.
President Ferdinand Marcos in July banned the industry, stating "the severe abuse and disrespect of our legal system must stop," and ordered the involved foreign workers to leave the Philippines within two months.
