The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has raised concerns about reports of Filipinos managing independent scam farms, noting that these individuals are primarily former POGO workers.
PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio described the situation as a “ticking time bomb.”
Estimates suggest that nearly 20,000 local workers were employed in the POGO industry and are now facing unemployment or have already lost their jobs following the POGO ban order announced by President Marcos in July.
According to the Philippine News Agency, Casio indicated that this trend has emerged from the PAOCC’s recent operations targeting smaller scam hubs. He highlighted the legal complications arising from the significant number of Filipinos arrested during these crackdowns, emphasizing the difficulty of building cases against such large groups.
These scam operations primarily focus on online shopping scams, where victims order products but receive substandard items or nothing at all. Some scams even involve online raffles. Many of those arrested are experienced former POGO workers.
Due to the challenges in constructing credible cases against the detainees, the PAOCC has released them with strong warnings against re-engaging in such activities. Casio emphasized that repeat offenders could face charges.
Additionally, he mentioned that a draft executive order banning all POGOs is awaiting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s signature. This order would extend to investment promotion areas and special economic zones, leaving no exceptions for offshore gaming operations that employ foreigners.
