Mayor orders probe into illegal Pogo operations in Zamboanga Sibugay

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur — Local authorities in Alicia town, Zamboanga Sibugay have launched an investigation into unauthorized business activities following the arrest of over 200 foreign nationals in twin raids against hubs of illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (Pogo) in the province.

In a statement released on social media Saturday, Alicia Mayor Ardin Musa declared that the municipal government “does not condone the presence, establishment, or proliferation” of Pogo operations within its administrative jurisdiction.

Musa emphasized that economic growth will not be pursued at the cost of public safety and moral integrity.

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READ: ‘Largest Pogo bust’: 244 nabbed in Zamboanga Sibugay raids

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The local chief executive’s statement came a week after joint operations by the Bureau of Immigration (BI), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and military forces targeted illicit facilities operating in the coastal towns of Alicia and Siay, leading to what authorities described as the largest Pogo bust in the country this year.

Of 244 individuals rounded up, mostly Chinese nationals, some 51 have been flown to Manila. The 51 are potential victims of human trafficking.

“While our municipality remains committed to promoting economic growth, responsible business development, and employment opportunities, we firmly believe that economic activity must never come at the expense of the peace, safety, dignity, and moral integrity of our community,” Musa said.

He said he had directed local police authorities, barangay leaders, and the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) to conduct an immediate and thorough probe into local operations connected to the reported illegal activities.

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“Should these allegations be substantiated, this Administration will take all necessary and lawful measures to ensure that the operations are stopped and that those responsible are held accountable in accordance with the law,” the mayor added.

“We will not allow activities that threaten our peace and security or expose our people—especially our children and vulnerable sectors—to risks of exploitation, criminality, and disorder. Your safety is non-negotiable,” Musa emphasized, urging residents to report any unusual activity to barangay officials or law enforcement authorities. INQ /mr