Scam hub deceived Philippine authorities, tied to elites
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – A love scam operation in Pasay City, recently dismantled by authorities, is accused of deceiving the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and possibly receiving aid from influential Filipinos.
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) disclosed that the scam hub, situated near the World Trade Center, misled PAGCOR by falsely claiming non-operational status while continuing its activities.
PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio indicated the potential involvement of powerful Filipinos in supporting the scam hub.
In an interview with Rappler, Casio stated that they are seeing links to some powerful Filipinos who possibly own or were leasing the Kimberhi building where the scam hub operates.
Business operations under scrutiny
The company at the center, 3D Analyzer Information Technologies Incorporated, was initially registered as a tech solutions firm in June 2016. In March 2024, it shifted its focus to a business process outsourcing (BPO) provider of “interactive gaming websites.”
Despite displaying an Internet Gaming License (IGL) from PAGCOR, the company was declared non-operational by the gaming regulator.
However, Casio highlighted that newly hired workers were found during the raid, contradicting claims of ceased operations.
“Niloko nila ‘yung Pagcor, sabi nila hindi na sila operational… kaya hahabulin namin sila. (They fooled Pagcor, they said they were non-operational…so we are going after them),” said Casio, emphasizing authorities’ resolve to pursue those responsible.
Complex corporate structure revealed
The corporate structure of 3D Analyzer appears intricate and layered. Predominantly Filipino board members have been involved, with occasional foreign nationals. A Chinese individual registered as a Filipino was also noted in company records. The main office locations listed in their incorporation documents differ from the Kimberhi Building.
Casio mentioned ongoing investigations into 3D Analyzer’s structure: “Pinag-aaralan pa po namin sapagkat ayon sa mga inisyal naming nakita… meron pa silang main branch dito sa Aseana. (We are still studying it because according to what we initially saw… they have a main branch in Aseana.)”
Implications and future measures
The raid resulted in the detention of 254 workers, including 191 foreigners primarily from China. These individuals face immigration law violations due to their involvement in illegal operations. Filipino workers were released due to insufficient grounds for detention but are noted for frequently moving between scam hubs.
Casio expressed concern over this trend: “Patalon talon sila ng scam kaya duon ako nalulungkot… darating ang panahon na hindi dapat sila pinapakawalan lang nang ganon. (They have been moving from one scam to another. There should come a time where they shouldn’t be released as easily.)”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. already banned Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), including IGLs, with all such operations expected to cease by year-end. The investigation into 3D Analyzer continues as authorities seek accountability for those involved in this elaborate scheme.
