• 3,000 firms
  • Independent
  • Trusted
Save up to 70% on staff

News » $1.9Mn cash seized in Philippine BPO raid

$1.9Mn cash seized in Philippine BPO raid

cash-seized-in-philippine-bpo-raid
Photo from PAOCC

BATAAN, PHILIPPINES — Over PHP112 million (US$1.9 million) in cash was uncovered during a court-ordered raid at Central One Bataan PH, a business process outsourcing (BPO) firm in Bagac, Bataan. 

The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) led the operation, alleging the company’s involvement in illegal offshore gaming operations.

The raid revealed 12 safety vaults containing PHP112.5 million (US$1.9 million), dollar bills amounting to US$170,000, and other foreign currencies, including Malaysian Ringgit and Singapore Dollars. 

Specialized equipment from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) was used to access the vaults after company-provided codes failed.

Second raid adds to earlier cash seizure

This operation follows an October 2024 raid where two vaults containing PHP30 million (US$509,000) were seized. The latest search warrant was issued by Judge Hermenegildo Dumlao of the Regional Trial Court in Malolos City, Bulacan, as part of investigations into alleged violations of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act. Authorities suspect the involvement of an individual known as “Boss Kalbo” or “Chinese Boss.”

In addition to cash, law enforcement confiscated foreign passports, security tokens, vouchers, and other documents. 

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo raised concerns about labor exploitation, questioning why the company held employees’ passports. 

“If I were legitimately working there, these passports should be in my possession because these are individual passports. How come a company is withholding these passports? That will be subject to investigation,” she stated.

Central One Bataan denies allegations

Central One’s legal counsel, Don Chiong, denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the funds were intended for operational expenses such as salaries and supplier payments. 

“We are here cooperating with the authorities… we are not hiding anything,” Chiong stated.

However, Fajardo dismissed this explanation, noting that modern payroll systems rarely involve large cash transactions. “Salaries today aren’t given in cash; it all goes through automated teller machines,” she argued.

PAGCOR clarifies jurisdiction over gaming operations

Earlier this week, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) clarified its regulatory authority over Central One Bataan following allegations of illegal gaming activities. 

While Central One operates under the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), PAGCOR emphasized that online gaming activities fall under its jurisdiction. PAGCOR also confirmed that Central One is not licensed to conduct such operations.

Investigation ongoing

The confiscated cash and documents have been transferred to PNP headquarters in Camp Crame for safekeeping and further legal proceedings. Investigators continue to verify the origins of the funds and assess Central One’s compliance with regulatory requirements.

Read more here.

Start your
journey today

  • Independent
  • Free
  • Transparent

About OA

Outsource Accelerator is the trusted source of independent information, advisory and expert implementation of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)

The #1 outsourcing authority

Outsource Accelerator offers the world’s leading aggregator marketplace for outsourcing. It specifically provides the conduit between Philippines outsourcing suppliers and the businesses – clients – across the globe.

The Outsource Accelerator website has over 5,000 articles, 450+ podcast episodes, and a comprehensive directory with 4000+ BPO companies… all designed to make it easier for clients to learn about – and engage with – outsourcing.

About Derek Gallimore

Derek Gallimore has been in business for 20 years, outsourcing for over eight years, and has been living in Manila (the heart of global outsourcing) since 2014. Derek is the founder and CEO of Outsource Accelerator, and is regarded as a leading expert on all things outsourcing.

“Excellent service for outsourcing advice and expertise for my business.”

Learn more
Banner Image
Get 3 Free Quotes Verified Outsourcing Suppliers
3,000 firms.Just 2 minutes to complete.
SAVE UP TO
70% ON STAFF COSTS
Learn more

Connect with over 3,000 outsourcing services providers.

Banner Image

Transform your business with skilled offshore talent.

  • 3,000 firms
  • Simple
  • Transparent
Banner Image