On March 19, the Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) of the National Police jointly launched a raid operation. Initially targeting Dennis E. Esguerra, a suspect in a robbery case, they unexpectedly discovered an illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) operating covertly.
The raid took place on the 21st floor of the Yuchengco Tower in the RCBC Plaza, Makati. Upon entering the premises, law enforcement found a company named Flying Future Company, which primarily provides online gambling services to countries including Japan, China, Germany, France, Indonesia, Spain, Thailand, Vietnam, and Portugal, and is involved in cryptocurrency transactions.
However, the company was operating without a license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), constituting illegal operations.
Gilbert Cruz, Deputy Minister of PAOCC, stated that such POGO businesses often hide in upscale business districts, masquerading as legitimate companies to evade regulation. This not only disrupts economic order but may also pose national security risks. During the raid, law enforcement seized text message broadcasters and International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) catchers, suspecting the organization might be involved in fraudulent activities.
Starting from 2024, the Philippine government will completely ban POGO operations, citing their close association with crimes such as money laundering, human trafficking, and illegal immigration bribery. This operation once again demonstrates the government's determination to combat illegal gambling, aiming to thoroughly eliminate unlawful operations and maintain social order and national security.
