The Philippine National Police (PNP) has vowed to intensify its crackdown on covert offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in alignment with the comprehensive ban issued by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aiming to ensure social order stability.
PNP Chief General Rommel Francisco Mabil said on Tuesday that since the government formally implemented the POGO ban at the beginning of 2025, the police have continuously launched special operations to combat crimes related to POGOs, including illegal detention, financial fraud, and human trafficking.
According to data released by the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG), from January 2024 to February 2025, there were 40 kidnapping cases recorded nationwide, 10 of which involved Chinese citizens. It is noted that the suspects in these cases are often compatriots of the victims, highlighting the reality that underground criminal gangs remain active after the POGO shutdown.
Mabil emphasized that despite the prohibition of POGOs, the police still face challenges in curbing related crimes. He revealed that the police are currently investigating a missing case of a Chinese citizen, who was last seen on February 20 in Taguig City before disappearing.
"We are fully investigating this case and call on the public to trust the official reports of the police. The Philippine National Police will spare no effort in tracing every clue to ensure the truth of the case comes to light," Mabil stated.
To further combat underground POGOs, on February 20, authorities raided an illegal gambling operation center in Parañaque City, arresting 453 people, including 307 Filipinos and 137 Chinese citizens. This raid is one of the significant measures taken by the Philippine police to strictly regulate illegal POGOs.
Moreover, the National Capital Region Criminal Investigation and Detection Group announced on Monday the establishment of a special tracking team dedicated to capturing POGO organizations still secretly operating, preventing them from continuing to endanger public security.
Mabil reiterated that the Philippine National Police will resolutely combat all illegal activities and thoroughly eliminate criminal networks posing threats to national security. He stressed, "We will continue to adopt a high-pressure stance to ensure the rule of law is upheld and all criminals are subjected to legal sanctions."
The firm stance of the Philippine government and police indicates that in facing the social issues triggered by underground POGOs, law enforcement will adopt stricter measures to ensure the comprehensive implementation of the ban, maintaining peace and stability in society.
