The Philippine government has deported 187 Chinese nationals who were arrested during a crackdown on illegal offshore gaming operations, known as POGOs. The deportation was announced by Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, the Executive Director of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), who confirmed that the individuals were sent back to Shanghai from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on a Thursday flight.
These individuals were apprehended in various raids conducted by PAOCC operatives across different locations including Lapu-Lapu City in Cebu, Bamban and Porac towns in Tarlac, and Metro Manila. According to Cruz, the arrested foreigners failed to present necessary documents and passports, classifying them as undesirable aliens and violators of immigration laws, thus subjecting them to deportation.
The deportation process was coordinated with the Chinese Embassy in Manila. Cruz emphasized that these individuals are not considered victims but rather operators of POGO and scamming hubs. Upon their arrival in China, they will need to prove their victim status, though Cruz noted that due to China’s strict stance against illegal gambling and scamming, they are likely to face detention.
This action comes in the wake of Executive Order 74, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which mandates the cessation of all POGO, Internet gaming, and other offshore gaming operations in the Philippines by December 31.