PNP orders tighter security amid QC POGO hub raid
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered intensified security measures Thursday to protect critical government information, facilities, and communications following the discovery of a clandestine offshore gaming facility in Quezon City near key military and police headquarters.
The crackdown follows directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., issued through Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to eliminate illegal foreign-operated gaming operations and potential espionage threats.
“We are taking all proactive measures to ensure that all important communication systems and matters related to national security are protected,” Nartatez said.
The security alert was triggered by the arrest of 76 foreign nationals during a raid on an illegal offshore gaming facility in Cubao, Quezon City, located near major police and military installations.
Police investigators are examining potential links between the Cubao facility and an illegal gaming hub in Zamboanga Sibugay where 244 foreign nationals, mostly Chinese, were arrested earlier this month.
Nartatez stressed that the PNP is reviewing internal protocols to prevent foreign infiltration or cyber breaches.
“We continue to validate all information to ensure that your PNP is not downplaying these possible threats,” Nartatez said.
Concurrently, the DILG directed local government units to conduct rigorous inspections of commercial buildings and high-rise developments before issuing or renewing business permits.
Under DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2026-054, issued pursuant to Republic Act 12312 (the Anti-POGO Act of 2025), municipal and city governments must conduct regular random inspections to ensure banned Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), Internet Gaming Licensees, and online scam hubs do not operate within their borders.
Starting 15 January 2027, local government units will be required to submit annual notarized certifications to DILG regional offices confirming the absence of illegal gaming hubs in their jurisdictions.
The DILG also instructed local chief executives to coordinate closely with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, the PNP, and the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate, close and prosecute illicit gaming operations.