Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) senior vice president Raul Villanueva admitted that his claim about a former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief receiving bribes from illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) was based on mere gossip, according to a ranking official on Monday.
Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief Maj. Gen. Leo Francisco revealed that Villanueva made this admission during a conversation initiated by PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, who had ordered an investigation into the claims following a recent Senate hearing.
“What Villanueva said was that he wasn’t pointing to anyone specifically, and that it was just rumors circulating within the intelligence community. I told him, ‘Sir, the former PNP chiefs are concerned, and this has become a significant issue within the PNP,'” Francisco explained during a phone interview.
As a result, Francisco confirmed that the CIDG would no longer pursue further investigation into Villanueva’s claims, stating that Villanueva acknowledged it was all just gossip. Villanueva also expressed his willingness to answer any media inquiries regarding the matter.
Francisco said he remains unsure why Villanueva made such a claim in the first place. “He said it was gossip, and that’s where our conversation ended,” Francisco added.
The CIDG chief will consult Gen. Marbil for further guidance on whether to pursue a case against Villanueva. Earlier, Marbil described Villanueva’s allegations as “damaging” to the entire police force.
“General Villanueva’s allegation is damaging not just to the PNP but to the entire government. We represent law enforcement and peace and order, and this casts doubt on our integrity.”
PNP Chief General Rommel Marbil, Philippines
The Council of Chiefs, a group of former PNP leaders, previously challenged Villanueva to publicly name the retired PNP chief allegedly involved in POGO-related bribes. The group also called for a public apology from Villanueva if he is unable to substantiate his claims.
