7-7-2024 (MANILA) In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing crackdown against illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) activities, local authorities descended upon a sprawling two-hectare compound believed to be a private residence of the “big bosses” of Lucky South 99 Outsourcing Incorporated in Barangay Siñura, Porac, Pampanga. The coordinated raid, conducted on Saturday, July 6, involved a formidable force comprising the Philippine National Police (PNP) Pampanga provincial office, PNP Special Weapons and Tactics team, and other law enforcement units, working in tandem with Pampanga Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda and 3rd District board member Ananias Canlas Jr.
The target of the operation was a secluded enclave nestled along Daisy Street, Purok 6, less than five kilometers from the POGO hub. Within its confines lay three opulent mansions, complete with resort-like amenities and a hidden indoor firing range, as well as an underground tunnel, hinting at the clandestine nature of the activities taking place within.
The raid stemmed from a search warrant issued by Executive Judge Robert Alexander Malig of the Regional Trial Court Third Judicial Region, targeting Katherine Cassandra Li Ong, Gheric Pagcu Manaloto, and any individuals employed under their purview, on suspicion of violating the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.
Provincial police director Colonel Jay Dimaandal, in a press release issued by the Pampanga Provincial Information Office (PIO), disclosed that the compound was suspected of catering exclusively to the “big bosses” of the POGO hub. The presence of the well-equipped firing range, he noted, indicated that it was “actively used,” with multiple slugs recovered from the premises.
“Kahit PNP wala nito (Even the PNP doesn’t have this firing range). It is equipped with an electronic control for pistol and rifle targets. It is made sound-proof by the concrete walls and roofs,” Dimaandal remarked, underscoring the sophistication of the facility.
The decision to launch the raid was prompted by a confluence of intelligence reports, civilian tips, and findings from three public hearings conducted by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) in June. The mansion, initially owned by Rizalyn Manaloto, had been the subject of scrutiny during the second public hearing on June 21, where its lavish amenities, including a swimming pool, spa, KTV bar, and Chinese-themed entertainment centers, were laid bare.
Residents had reported witnessing the construction of the facility beginning in 2021, with frequent sightings of Chinese individuals and weekly helicopter landings, fueling speculation about the true nature of the operations taking place within.
Governor Pineda, in a press release and a subsequent Facebook post, emphasized the significance of the raid, stating, “We are taking actions against illegal activities of POGO for the peace of our communities.” He further revealed that the search warrant was requested due to suspected human trafficking cases, noting that the construction had proceeded without the necessary permits or clearances from local authorities.
While Ong and Manaloto eluded capture during the operation, authorities uncovered a trove of evidence, including personal belongings and communication traces suggesting their recent presence in the area. Other items seized included baseball bats, bladed weapons, and handcuffs, further fueling suspicions of illicit activities.
Ong is allegedly the girlfriend of the brother of suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, who has been linked to Zuan Yuan Technology Incorporated and Baofu Land Development in Barangay Anupu, which was raided in March.
During the operation, local police also detained two Filipino incorporators of Whirlwind Corporation, identified as Daniel Salcedo Jr. and Chona Alejandre, along with six other Filipino individuals – three males and three females – who claimed to be maintenance workers in the compound. All eight individuals were taken into custody for questioning.
Porac Mayor Jaime Capil confirmed that no permits had been issued for the property or its facilities, including the firing range. He revealed that attempts to inspect the premises on June 20 had been thwarted by a lawyer named Tony Co, who denied entry due to the absence of a search warrant.
“We will do what is needed and whatever we can to stop these POGOs. We will continue to support this as we also aim towards the betterment of our province. We are grateful to Governor Delta as well as Vice Governor (Lilia) Pineda for their guidance and concern for our people.”
