Ex-presidential spokesperson, others face charges over POGO operations
The Philippines’ Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed non-bailable charges of qualified human trafficking against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and Whirlwind Corporation incorporator Cassandra Ong in connection with a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Porac, Pampanga. The complaint, lodged before the Angeles City Regional Trial Court on Monday, involves over 40 individuals allegedly complicit in the trafficking and abuse of workers at the controversial Lucky South 99 site.
The charges stem from a June 2024 raid on the POGO facility by law enforcement, which uncovered conditions described by authorities as exploitative. Prosecutors accuse Roque, Ong, and others of enabling or directly participating in the trafficking and forced labour of workers, many of whom were Chinese nationals, inside a compound maintained by Whirlwind Corporation.
Alleged role of Whirlwind and Lucky South 99
Investigators allege that the property in Porac was used by Lucky South 99 and Whirlwind Corporation for illegal online gambling activities disguised as legitimate POGO operations. According to the DOJ, ten of the accused were responsible for securing the compound where workers were reportedly subjected to physical harm, threats, and confinement.
Fifteen other individuals are said to have used force and intimidation to compel labour while also allegedly withholding passports and communication devices from victims. Workers were allegedly coerced into performing duties as online customer service agents, unable to leave the facility until they had repaid their recruitment fees.
Authorities say the operation included elements of abduction, with victims allegedly sold to the POGO hub to settle gambling debts. These claims, supported by testimonies from local and foreign complainants, form the basis for the large-scale trafficking charges now pending before the court.
Roque’s legal ties and response
Roque is accused of using his role as legal counsel for the involved companies to facilitate the continuation of operations. Prosecutors said he actively participated in securing a renewal of Lucky South 99’s gaming licence and gained from the process despite being aware of the nature of the activities taking place within the Porac compound.
In public statements, Roque has denied the allegations and called the case against him politically motivated. He insists his legal representation in corporate and regulatory matters does not equate to involvement in trafficking. Roque has also confirmed he is seeking asylum in the Netherlands, citing fears of political persecution. The Philippines currently has no extradition treaty with the Netherlands, raising questions about enforcement should an arrest warrant be issued.
The charges come after the government banned all POGO operations in 2024 following multiple investigations into criminal activity linked to the industry. The case involving Roque and Ong is among the most high-profile legal actions taken under this crackdown.
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