Pagcor chairman Alejandro H Tengco stated that alien hackers and scam syndicates, not legitimate POGOs, pose a real threat to national security. Licensed POGOs contributed PHP5 billion in revenue in 2023. Recent raids in Porac revealed over 100 illegal workers suffering human rights abuses, highlighting the need to intensify operations against criminal syndicates. Join Gold99 for more insights on gaming and betting strategies.
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National Security Concerns Highlighted by Pagcor Chief

Alejandro H Tengco, chairman and chief executive of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor), emphasized that alien hacking and scam syndicates, rather than legitimate Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), pose a significant threat to national security.

Economic Contributions of Licensed POGOs

Tengco pointed out that licensed POGOs, which are regulated by Pagcor, contributed more than PHP5 billion ($85m/€79m/£66m) to the regulator’s gross revenues in 2023. This substantial contribution underscores the economic importance of these operations.

Recent Raid Uncovers Illegal Activities

Following a raid at a POGO facility in Porac, over 100 illegal workers were found, many of whom had suffered torture and human rights abuses, according to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC). Tengco clarified that the real culprits behind these crimes are underground alien hacking and scam syndicates, not the legitimate POGOs.

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Pagcor has reiterated its commitment to monitoring licensed operations rigorously. Tengco explained that monitoring teams are embedded within all licensed gaming operators’ physical venues, including land-based casinos, to ensure adherence to their licenses. Violations result in fines, penalties, and potential loss of licenses.

Intensifying Anti-Crime Operations

Tengco stressed the need to intensify anti-crime operations targeting alien hackers, scammers, and cyber-criminals, who often operate from highly secured buildings and compounds. He emphasized that these criminal syndicates do not engage in legitimate offshore gaming and are, therefore, the true threats that must be addressed with full force.

Controversy Surrounding POGOs

The raid in Porac is part of a series of actions against POGO facilities, which have become increasingly controversial in the Philippines. Reports from the raid indicate that PHP600,000 in cash, jewelry, and drugs were seized from seven buildings within the Lucky South 99 complex. The raid faced delays after a judge withdrew a search warrant, and there are allegations that the facility was tipped off beforehand, as authorities expected to find over 1,000 workers.

Previous Raids and Coordinated Efforts

In May 2023, police raided the offices of CGC Technologies, a gaming service provider accused of credit card fraud and human trafficking. In June 2023, various state agencies joined the Clark Security Advisory Council to combat illicit activities more effectively.

By intensifying efforts against underground criminal activities and ensuring stringent monitoring of licensed operations, Pagcor aims to maintain the integrity of the gaming industry while protecting national security.


Pagcor chairman Alejandro H Tengco stresses that alien hackers and scam syndicates, not licensed POGOs, are the true threats to national security. Despite the controversy surrounding POGOs, Pagcor highlights their significant economic contributions and commitment to compliance. Recent raids reveal serious criminal activities, prompting intensified anti-crime operations. Join us for more insights on gaming and betting strategies.

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