Philippine authorities have arrested 244 foreign workers, mostly Chinese, in the country's largest crackdown on illegal online gaming operators this year. The immigration bureau announced that the arrests were made during raids on two addresses in the southern region of Mindanao. The operation, described as the largest POGO bust of 2026, targeted Philippine online gaming operators, known locally as POGOs, which were banned in 2024 due to their links to organised crime.
The raids, conducted by the military and other law enforcement agencies, resulted in the arrest of 110 Chinese nationals, two Cambodians, and a Hong Kong resident at one site. Another 131 foreigners, mostly Chinese, as well as citizens of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Myanmar, were arrested at the second site. The immigration bureau stated that large quantities of computer equipment, mobile phones, laptops, and SIM cards were seized during the operation.
The Philippine government had banned POGOs in 2024, citing concerns that organised crime groups were using them as a cover for human trafficking, money laundering, online fraud, kidnappings, and murder. The government is now investigating possible human trafficking-related offences by some of those arrested, while the rest will be deported.
Immigration chief Joel Viado stated that the authorities will continue to enforce immigration laws against foreign nationals who violate the conditions of their stay. He emphasised that the Philippines will not be used as a base for illegal activities. The Chinese embassy in Manila has not yet responded to requests for comment on the arrests.
The crackdown on POGOs is part of the Philippine government's efforts to combat organised crime and protect its citizens from related activities. The authorities have been working to identify and dismantle networks involved in human trafficking, online scams, and other crimes.
The arrested individuals will face deportation, while those suspected of human trafficking-related offences will be investigated and potentially prosecuted. The Philippine government has urged foreign nationals to comply with immigration laws and regulations.
The successful operation demonstrates the Philippine authorities' commitment to enforcing their laws and regulations, particularly with regards to foreign nationals engaging in illicit activities. The government has vowed to continue its efforts to prevent the Philippines from being used as a hub for organised crime.
Key points
- Philippine authorities arrested 244 foreign workers, mostly Chinese, in a crackdown on illegal online gaming operators.
- The raids were conducted in the southern region of Mindanao, targeting Philippine online gaming operators (POGOs) banned in 2024.
- The government is investigating possible human trafficking-related offences by some of those arrested, while the rest will be deported.
