One of the co-accused alongside former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and Cassandra "Cassie" Ong was arrested by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in Clark, Pampanga on Thursday, 29 May.
The individual, identified only as "Mariano," faces charges related to qualified trafficking in persons linked to alleged illicit activities at the Lucky South 99 Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Porac, Pampanga.
His arrest by CIDG operatives was confirmed in a press release issued on Saturday, 31 May.
CIDG Director Police Major General Nicolas Torre III urged the other 49 co-accused to surrender to authorities. “Tracker teams are pursuing you 24/7 and will catch you anytime soon. Isa-isa na kayong natutunton,” he said.
"Mariano" is also listed as an incorporator of Whirlwind Corp.
Prior to Mariano’s arrest, authorities apprehended another co-accused, “Marlon,” in Barangay Tabun, Mabalacat City. Marlon was the operations officer of the security agency involved during the qualified trafficking in persons case at the POGO hub.