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CARCAR CITY — Security threats linked to illegal Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hubs in Cebu have prompted the National Bureau of Investigation – Central Visayas (NBI-7) to intensify its crackdown on these establishments.
NBI director Jaime Santiago confirmed on Sunday that the bureau is investigating whether POGO operations in Cebu are being used for intelligence gathering.
One key focus is a POGO hub in Lapu-Lapu City, which was raided in September 2024. Its proximity to the Naval Forces Central has raised concerns about potential espionage.
Santiago also revealed that the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines requested the NBI's assistance after unidentified floating equipment was discovered in Bohol.
Authorities have recovered at least five submersible drones in various parts of the country over the past year. Santiago said the NBI is closely coordinating with military intelligence on these discoveries.
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NBI-7, under the leadership of regional director Rennan Augustus Oliva, continues to monitor POGO operations across the region.
Santiago assured the public that the agency's active offices and operatives remain vigilant in tracking illegal activities, particularly in Cebu.
He also reiterated that all POGO operations in the country are now illegal after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. revoked their licenses.
The president had announced in his State of the Nation Address in July last year that POGO hubs will be banned, with operations ordered to cease completely by Dec. 31, 2024.
Santiago emphasized that NBI-7 will pursue any remaining POGO operations and those involved.
Authorities remain on high alert, especially after a joint task force raid in Barangay Agus, Lapu-Lapu City on Aug. 31, 2024.
The raid resulted in the arrest of nearly 200 foreign nationals, including individuals from China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan, and Myanmar.
Among those apprehended, 16 foreign nationals and a Filipino, Zandrew Cantarona, are now facing qualified trafficking charges.
NBI-7 continues to track other locations where POGO-related activities may still be in progress.
While Santiago did not disclose specific sites under surveillance, he confirmed that operatives are actively monitoring individuals and groups involved in illegal gaming operations.
In addition to the Lapu-Lapu raid, authorities dismantled another POGO hub in Moalboal last year.
