TLDR
- Philippine police are targeting scam hubs that have re-emerged in smaller “guerrilla-style” networks after the POGO ban
- PNP chief General Nartatez confirmed hubs have been dismantled but enforcement is ongoing
- Suspected locations include Baclaran, Binondo, Parañaque, Palawan, and Cebu
- At least 100 “rogue” POGOs were found still operating covertly despite a December 31, 2024 shutdown deadline
- Police are coordinating with other agencies to improve intelligence sharing and surveillance
Philippine Police Ramp Up Scam Hub Crackdown as Illegal Networks Adapt
Philippine police have stepped up operations against scam hubs that have re-emerged in smaller, harder-to-detect forms following the government’s ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
PNP chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said on Sunday that police are actively verifying reports of ongoing scam hub activity across the country. He confirmed that several hubs have already been dismantled, but that enforcement will continue.
The renewed crackdown comes after concerns that POGO-linked groups have reorganized into smaller, more discreet operations since the formal ban took effect.
Former House quad committee chair Robert Ace Barbers raised those concerns, pointing to what he described as suspected groups continuing to operate quietly. Barbers named Baclaran, Binondo, and Parañaque in Metro Manila, along with Palawan and Cebu, as locations where clandestine activity is allegedly still taking place.
Coordinated Agency Response
Nartatez said the PNP is working with other government agencies to strengthen intelligence sharing, surveillance, and coordinated enforcement. The goal is to stop networks from rebuilding under reduced or hidden structures.
The current operations build on rules signed by government agencies in April 2026 to enforce the permanent closure of POGOs. Those rules implement Executive Order No. 74, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on November 4, 2024, which banned all POGOs and internet gaming licensees.
Authorities had previously reported that at least 100 “rogue” POGOs were still operating covertly in houses, hotels, and resorts after the December 31, 2024 shutdown deadline. That finding has continued to drive the government’s enforcement approach.
What Police Are Doing Now
Police say the challenge has shifted from shutting down formal POGO operations to tracking networks that have become smaller and less visible. Nartatez said authorities will keep verifying reports and maintaining pressure.
The PNP’s concern is that without sustained enforcement, these groups could re-establish themselves under different structures. Authorities say the crackdown will not ease even as the networks adapt.
The continuing probe suggests officials believe enough illegal activity remains to justify ongoing operations. With scam hubs reportedly moving into more discreet setups, the government is focused on preventing any momentum from being lost.
