According to the local police report, the Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Immigration jointly conducted a raid on Elijosh Resort located in Barangay Lalaan 2.
The resort's owner had reported to the police that foreigners (mainly Chinese nationals) were bringing gambling equipment, including computers and laptops, into the resort and engaging in suspicious activities.
The raid was carried out by the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Calabarzon field unit, the Bureau of Immigration's Fugitive Search Section, the Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office, and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission.
In this operation, the police arrested 23 Chinese citizens and 6 Myanmar citizens, all suspected of participating in underground Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) activities.
The Bureau of Immigration made the arrests based on mission orders and has begun the deportation proceedings for the suspects.
Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. had previously announced a total ban on the operation of POGOs within the Philippines, citing the industry's involvement in multiple criminal activities.
This operation further strengthens the Philippine government's resolve and efforts to combat the illegal gambling industry.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian highly praised the operation, stating that it demonstrated the government's decisive and effective law enforcement capabilities.
Gatchalian pointed out in a statement that this incident highlights the urgency of combating illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) and related activities. He emphasized, "To completely eradicate illegal activities associated with POGOs, we must impose stricter penalties and enhance the supervision of foreign workers and businesses." Additionally, he called for increased collaboration among government departments to close existing regulatory gaps and ensure that such illegal activities do not resurface.
Despite the comprehensive ban on POGOs in the Philippines, some "guerrilla operators" continue to operate secretly, attempting to evade the law. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has promised to continue to intensify law enforcement efforts to track down these illegal groups and ensure public safety and order.
Law enforcement agencies reiterated in a statement that a zero-tolerance policy will be adopted against illegal POGOs and cyber fraud dens, and called on the public to actively provide clues to combat illegal activities. Gatchalian stated, "We have a responsibility to create a safe and legal environment for the public, making it impossible for harmful social behaviors to hide."
This operation not only reflects the government's firm resolve but also reminds all parties to cooperate in maintaining public safety, creating a more stable living environment for the public.
