Philippine authorities have stepped up enforcement efforts against scam hubs that have reportedly re-emerged in smaller, less visible forms. These hubs appeared following the nationwide ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
According to local reports, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is targeting what officials describe as “guerrilla-style” scam operations. These groups continue to operate despite the government’s extensive crackdown on offshore gaming and fraud-related activities.
The latest enforcement push comes as authorities seek to prevent former POGO-linked networks from reorganizing. In addition, they want to stop these networks from resuming operations under new structures.
Police Respond to Reports of Ongoing Scam Activity
In a statement issued on Sunday, PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said law enforcement agencies are actively verifying reports. These reports claim that scam hubs remain operational in several parts of the country.
While authorities have already dismantled multiple facilities, Nartatez stressed that enforcement efforts will continue. The goal is to protect the public and uphold the rule of law.
The PNP chief said police are working closely with other government agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and surveillance operations. Additionally, they are coordinating enforcement actions against remaining networks.
Former Lawmaker Raises Concerns Over Reorganized Networks
Concerns over the persistence of scam operations were previously raised by former House Quad Committee Chair Robert Ace Barbers. He warned that some POGO-linked groups may have adapted their business models following the government’s crackdown.
According to Barbers, rather than operating large-scale compounds, some groups have allegedly reorganized into smaller operations. These operations are less conspicuous and designed to avoid detection.
Areas identified as potential locations for these activities include Baclaran, Binondo, and Parañaque in Metro Manila. Furthermore, parts of Palawan and Cebu were also identified as locations.
Authorities are continuing to investigate reports of illegal operations in these locations.
Government Moves to Enforce Permanent POGO Closure
The latest enforcement efforts form part of the government’s broader campaign to eliminate offshore gaming operations. This is occurring following the implementation of Executive Order No. 74.
Signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on November 4, 2024, the order mandated the closure of all POGOs. It also closed internet gaming licensees operating in the Philippines.
In April 2026, government agencies finalized and signed the implementing rules through a set of Inter-Agency Standard Operating Procedures. These procedures are designed to ensure the permanent shutdown of the sector.
The framework provides authorities with guidance for enforcement, monitoring, and coordination among agencies involved in executing the ban.
Rogue Operations Continue to Challenge Authorities
Despite the official prohibition, authorities have previously acknowledged that some operators continue to function illegally.
Government estimates suggest that at least 100 “rogue” POGO-related operations may still be operating covertly. These operations continued despite being ordered to cease activities by December 31, 2024.
Many of these alleged operations are believed to have relocated from large commercial facilities into residential properties, hotels, and resorts. They are also allegedly operating in other temporary locations to reduce visibility and avoid law enforcement scrutiny.
The shift toward smaller decentralized networks has created new challenges for regulators and investigators.
Focus on Organized Crime and Public Protection
The Philippine government has increasingly linked scam hubs and illegal offshore gaming operations to broader concerns. These concerns include organized crime, fraud, money laundering, human trafficking, and cyber-enabled financial crimes.
Authorities view the dismantling of remaining scam hubs as a key component of efforts to strengthen public safety. They also consider it essential to restore confidence in the country’s regulatory environment.
As enforcement agencies continue pursuing residual POGO-linked networks, the focus is shifting from large-scale gaming compounds. Instead, they are now targeting smaller, more agile operations that have emerged in the aftermath of the nationwide ban.
The latest crackdown signals that Philippine authorities remain committed to preventing the resurgence of illegal gaming and scam-related activities. They maintain this commitment despite the changing tactics employed by criminal groups.
