Guo Refuses to Identify “Most Guilty”
A recent development in the ongoing investigation into Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) has shed new light on the extent of corruption and bribery involved in the industry. Two executives from Zun Yuan Technology, including “Alex” and the corporate secretary, have surrendered to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) after being accused of being involved in a qualified human trafficking case.
According to the accused, they were paid to keep silent about their involvement and were even offered a monthly dividend in exchange for lending their names as incorporators. The pair allegedly received P20,000 and later P500,000 to keep quiet about their involvement and were instructed not to cooperate with authorities.
Meanwhile, dismissed Bamban mayor Alice Guo, who is also a key figure in the POGO industry, has revealed a “crucial personality” to the Senate’s investigation into POGOs. However, Guo refused to identify the individual as the “most guilty” in the POGO-related crimes. Despite admitting to assisting an international criminal syndicate, Guo claims she was a victim rather than the mastermind behind the crimes.
The Senate committee is investigating reports of human trafficking, cyber fraud, and other offenses involving POGOs. Senator JV Ejercito has indicated that Guo may be forced to reveal more information about POGOs in the next executive session, given her current physical and health condition. The Department of Justice will determine if Guo can become a state witness in the case.
In a separate development, the Philippines is expected to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list soon. The FATF placed the Philippines on its grey list nearly five years ago due to concerns over its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems. However, according to a Department of Justice (DOJ) official, the country has made significant progress in addressing these concerns and is expected to be removed from the grey list in October.
The Philippines has already completed 15 of the 18 committed outcomes required by the FATF and has submitted its final report a month ago. The remaining three areas of concern have also been addressed, and the FATF has acknowledged the country’s significant progress in enhancing its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems.
The removal from the grey list would be a major boost for the country’s financial sector and could attract foreign investment and improve its reputation internationally.
