84 Filipinos rescued from scam hub disguised as BPO
PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES — In a significant operation, 84 Filipinos were rescued from an alleged love scam hub masquerading as a business process outsourcing (BPO) company in Angeles City, Pampanga.
The operation, which took place last September 20, was led by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Pampanga District Office.
Government raid uncovers cybercrime operation
The raid was conducted under a search warrant for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 10175, also known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act. The company was officially registered as FMD Non-Voices Outsourcing Services, owned by Irene dela Cruz Vergara.
During the raid, authorities seized numerous items, including boxes of SIM cards, mobile phones, computers, and various documents. Barangay Salapungan chief Rey Malig, who witnessed the operation, confirmed that the rescued individuals were taken to the NBI headquarters at Clark Freeport. Notably, no foreign nationals were apprehended during the raid.
Distinguishing between BPOs and illegal operations
Angeles City chief adviser IC Calaguas clarified that the operation did not involve Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), stating, “It is not a POGO. It is a love scam owned and ran by a Filipino.”
This statement comes amid heightened scrutiny of POGOs in the region due to their association with various illegal activities.
Government crackdown on fraudulent activities
This incident is part of a broader pattern of operations targeting fraudulent activities disguised as legitimate businesses. Earlier this year, a similar case involved Lucky South 99 Outsourcing Inc., which misled authorities by posing as a BPO before being exposed as a POGO.
In response to these ongoing issues, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced an immediate ban on all POGOs during his third State of the Nation Address (SONA). He cited their involvement in criminal activities such as scamming and money laundering as reasons for the ban.
“The grave abuse and disrespect to our system and laws must stop,” Marcos emphasized.
As investigations continue, local authorities are expected to release further information regarding the recent operation in Pampanga. The crackdown on illegal operations posing as BPOs highlights the government’s commitment to addressing cybercrime and ensuring public safety.
