MANILA, Philippines — In a recent Senate committee hearing on the illicit activities of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), Senator Risa Hontiveros identified Tony Yang, the elder brother of Michael Yang, as the key figure behind their operations. Tony Yang’s real name is Yang Jian Xin.
Michael Yang, a former economic adviser to President Rodrigo Duterte, has been under scrutiny for his connections to illegal POGO activities. In the Senate committee on women’s probe, Hontiveros declared Tony Yang as the “true architect” of their operations.
Tony Yang holds various business interests. He is also known as Antonio Maestrado Lim in business circles. During the hearing, Hontiveros stated the necessity of further investigation into Tony Yang’s business dealings, including his connections to POGO operations.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian echoed Hontiveros’s concerns. Gatchalian emphasized Tony Yang’s significant role within the illegal online gaming industry. He linked Yang to an online gaming facility allegedly owned by dismissed Mayor Alice Guo.
The Senate committee took particular interest in the relationship between the Yang brothers and their involvement in illegal POGO activities. This interest was heightened following the arrest of Tony Yang by the Bureau of Immigration. The arrest came amid allegations that Tony Yang was attempting to flee the country.
Hontiveros welcomed the arrest, describing it as a step toward uncovering the full extent of the Yang brothers’ involvement in illegal operations. She stressed the importance of dismantling these illegal networks and holding those responsible accountable.
The Senate committee’s inquiry also touched upon the broader issue of the impact of illegal POGOs on Philippine society. Hontiveros highlighted the adverse social effects, including criminal activities and financial scams tied to POGO operations. The committee’s work aims to curb these harmful practices and restore order.
Tony Yang’s presence at the Senate hearing, along with other Chinese nationals linked to POGO operations, drew significant attention. The Senate’s investigation seeks to uncover the depth and breadth of these illegal activities and their impact on the country.
Reactions to the Senate’s findings have been varied. Some lawmakers commend the efforts to clamp down on illegal gaming operations. Others, however, call for a more nuanced approach, ensuring that legitimate business interests are not unduly affected.
The Senate committee on women’s probe into POGO operations continues to shed light on the intricate web of illegal activities tied to the gaming industry. The investigation remains ongoing, with further hearings and potential legal actions expected in the coming weeks.
