The Department of Justice (DOJ) in the Philippines has initiated an investigation into the discovery of alleged mass graves in Porac, Pampanga, which are reportedly linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) operations that were raided and shut down earlier this year.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We are serious about the mass graves, it’s a very serious matter that we cannot take for granted.”
The investigation was prompted by findings from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), which indicated that the graves were discovered within the compounds of POGO operators, specifically Lucky South 99 and Whirlwind Corporation. These operators were subject to recent raids and are now facing charges of qualified trafficking.
According to PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio, reports and witness testimonies were received through various social media platforms and direct approaches. These witnesses alleged personal knowledge of crimes committed at the POGO hubs, including murders of foreign workers.
Key points of the investigation include:
- Identification of Burial Sites: Prosecutors, PNP-CIDG investigators, PAOCC officers, and witnesses have identified possible burial locations over the weekend;
- Search Warrant Application: Authorities have decided to apply for a search warrant to legally inspect and excavate the suspected burial grounds, aiming to alleviate concerns of foreign embassies and relatives of missing individuals;
- Nationwide POGO Ban: The discovery of these alleged mass graves was a significant factor in the President’s decision to announce a nationwide ban on POGO operations in mid-July;
- Increased Surveillance: Following the ban, surveillance has been intensified to track and remove POGOs that continue to operate illegally;
The PAOCC has also coordinated with the Chinese embassy to obtain a list of missing persons who worked for the POGOs, which will be compared with names found at the POGO hub in Porac.
This investigation highlights the serious concerns surrounding organized crimes linked to POGO operations and the commitment of Philippine authorities to address these issues.
