700 workers rescued from illegal POGO operation suspected of sex trafficking

During a search led by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Department of Justice in Pasay City, over 700 workers were freed from an illegal POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator) business that was suspected of engaging in sex trafficking.

Near Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport, a six-story building housing the POGO firm was found to be operational. It had a cafeteria, pharmacy, KTV area, and “shabu-shabu” area.

The search was conducted in response to a Makati Regional Trial Court Branch 35 search warrant. During the operation, 731 workers were released, and two of them came forward to tell the authorities they had been held against their will. In order to file criminal charges, the PAOCC called an onsite inquest hearing after discovering evidence of sex trafficking at the address.

Smart Web Technology Corp.’s POGO license was allegedly revoked by PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation), yet the company carried on utilizing PAGCOR’s Internet Gaming License (IGL) system while operating under a new corporate name. The PAOCC wishes to suggest that Smart Web Technology Corp.’s IGL license be revoked for allowing human trafficking to take place on their property. This might lead to the assets of the IGL being frozen or seized.

Every POGO has been placed on probation by PAGCOR, and they are required to reapply for licenses. Additionally, “IGL” is gradually replacing “POGO” as the term for offshore gaming companies.

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Original story by: IAG