MANILA, Philippines– Authorities conducted an operation in Pasay City, leading to the arrest of approximately 400 foreign nationals.
The raid targeted a suspected scam operation center, believed to be operating as an unauthorized Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo).
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) led the operation. It took place in a ten-story building in Pasay City, where individuals were found involved in activities related to an alleged scam hub.
The building was suspected of being used as a front for a Pogo establishment. The operation involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including local police and national security teams.
The arrested individuals included 207 Chinese, 132 Vietnamese, 24 Koreans, 11 Malaysians, 14 Indonesians, and others from various countries. Most of them were found at workstations inside the building, indicating involvement in the operation.
Authorities are investigating the nature of the activities conducted within the building. Early reports suggest that the operations were focused on scamming international clients through online platforms typically linked to offshore gaming.
The Philippine government has increased efforts to target illegal Pogo operations in recent months. While Pogos were once allowed to operate legally in the country, regulations have been tightened and bans have been placed on certain operations.