Philippine BPO firm denies POGO links after $56Mn fraud raid
BATAAN, PHILIPPINES — Business process outsourcing (BPO) company Central One Bataan PH Incorporated strongly denied allegations that it operates as an illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) following a raid by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) on October 31.
The company, based in Bagac, Bataan, was accused of engaging in illegal activities such as online gambling, cryptocurrency scams, and black market banking.
In a statement, Central One described the accusations as “malicious” and “fabricated.” The company emphasized that no criminal charges have been filed against it or its officers since the operation.
“Instead, Central One’s employees are rallying behind the legitimacy of the company’s operations,” the statement read.
Employees defend the company’s legitimacy
Central One’s employees continue to support the company, with many defending its operations and working conditions. One employee, speaking anonymously, praised the firm for offering competitive salaries and benefits such as health insurance and a positive work environment.
“Our relationship with higher-ups is like family; they treat us well,” the employee said, dismissing claims that workers needed to be “rescued.”
The company also reiterated its willingness to comply with any additional government requirements to resume operations and restore jobs for its 1,600 employees who have been out of work since the raid.
PAOCC alleges evidence of illegal activities
Despite these denials, PAOCC Executive Director Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz claimed that evidence had been found linking Central One to illegal operations.
Among those apprehended during the raid was Handoyo Salman, an Indonesian national suspected of involvement in online scams amounting to approximately PHP 3.3 billion (US$56 million). Cruz described Salman as a “high-value personality” involved in money laundering activities.
The PAOCC also cited video evidence suggesting that Central One was involved in sports betting and other activities typically associated with POGOs. However, no formal charges have been filed yet against the company or its officers.
Company vows legal action
Central One has announced that it will pursue all legal remedies to clear its name from what it described as “baseless claims.” The company is coordinating with government agencies such as the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), under which it is registered as a legitimate BPO.
The company is also reportedly working closely with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and other regulatory bodies to resolve any issues related to its permits.
As investigations continue, Central One remains adamant that it is not involved in any illegal activities and looks forward to resuming operations once regulatory concerns are addressed.
Regulatory uncertainty amid POGO crackdown
The raid on Central One comes amid heightened scrutiny of POGOs in the Philippines.
Earlier this year, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced a nationwide ban on offshore gaming operators due to their involvement in various criminal activities such as money laundering and human trafficking. This was officially enforced in an executive order issued on November 8, 2024. The crackdown has led to multiple raids across the country, but Central One maintains that it operates legally under BPO regulations.
