The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) reported receiving death threats as it investigates illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs. PAOCC spokesperson Winston John Casio confirmed these threats in a Super Radyo dzBB interview, stating, "Yes, we have been receiving some threats. But maybe these are just merely to scare us off."
Casio emphasized the need for vigilance among PAOCC personnel due to the potential dangers. "We have to be careful, so to speak, it's difficult," he said. The PAOCC has been pivotal in major raids on POGO hubs involved in criminal activities, including operations in Bamban, Tarlac, and Porac, Pampanga. These raids have resulted in the rescue of hundreds of Filipinos and foreign nationals, including Chinese, Malaysians, and Vietnamese, many of whom were torture and kidnap victims.
Civilian Agency with Support
Despite their success, Casio highlighted that the PAOCC is primarily a civilian agency, with most personnel serving as analysts who do not typically carry weapons during raids. "Although we have a few active police officers, they are mainly intelligence officers. Most of us are actually civilians and analysts. Our job is to look at data, analyze it, and make recommendations," Casio explained.
Casio further clarified the PAOCC's role in coordinating and managing raid operations to ensure they remain lawful and effective. "In the raids that we have recently conducted, we mostly perform coordination. We manage the cases to make sure that they are always above board, and so we can file proper charges against those responsible," he added.
Ongoing Issues with Illegal POGOs
The PAOCC has identified approximately 300 illegal POGOs operating in the country that refuse regulation by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). These unregulated entities pose significant challenges to law enforcement and regulatory agencies.
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