THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has intensified its campaign to track down and dismantle underground or “guerrilla” Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs and cybercrime networks operating across Metro Manila.
NCRPO Officer-in-Charge Police Brigadier General Christopher N. Abrahano instructed all five regional police districts and specialized units to scale up intelligence-led operations targeting clandestine scam centers.
These illegal syndicates have reportedly been utilizing commercial establishments and residential properties as cover for illicit online operations and cyber-enabled financial crimes.
To ensure effective enforcement, police units are directed to validate credible tips, gather concrete evidence, and coordinate closely with key partner agencies.
These include the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
“We will not allow criminal groups to exploit commercial establishments and residential properties to deceive victims, conduct illegal online operations, or use Metro Manila as a base for cybercrime. Once unlawful activities are established through evidence, we will pursue those responsible and work with our partner agencies to bring them before the law,” Abrahano stated.
The NCRPO emphasized that while operations will be aggressive, all searches, inspections, and arrests must strictly adhere to legal requirements and due process.
Abrahano cautioned that legitimate businesses, property owners, and foreign nationals must never be unfairly targeted based on mere suspicion, ensuring that enforcement actions remain strictly evidence-based.
Aligning with PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr.’s directives to bolster public protection, the crackdown also relies on community cooperation.
Abrahano appealed to building administrators, landlords, local business owners, and residents to report suspicious activities or suspected underground gaming operations for immediate verification.
Concluding his directive, the NCRPO chief delivered a firm warning to criminal syndicates, declaring that Metro Manila will not serve as a safe haven for cybercriminals and illicit operators.
