PAOCC spokesperson removed for slapping POGO worker.

Nov 05, 2024 

Dr. Winston John Casio (left), Senior Technical Adviser for the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, participates in a Senate hearing on June 26, 2024. (Senate PRIB)

MANILA -The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) announced Tuesday that spokesperson Winston Casio has been removed from his position amid an investigation into allegations that he slapped a worker at a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO).

In a memorandum, PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz directed Casio to provide an explanation regarding his alleged “mistreatment” of a Filipino POGO worker in Bagac, Bataan, during an October 31 raid. The November 4 memo mentioned that footage of the incident was circulating on social media and instructed Casio to submit a written response within 24 hours.

The memo further stated, “You are also relieved of your duties as PAOCC spokesperson effective immediately and until this investigation is concluded.”

During an October 31 raid, Casio explained, Filipino workers at a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) facility in Bagac, Bataan, were informed they could leave, as the authorities couldn’t detain 950 people in their facility. Following the announcement, the workers reacted with what Casio described as “raucous and rowdy” cheers. Concerned about the situation, Casio sent a PAOCC staff member to monitor the workers. However, one worker reportedly insulted the officer, including making an obscene gesture.

In response, Casio called the worker over to address the disrespect shown to PAOCC staff. He told the worker he had two options: face charges for unjust vexation or accept two slaps as a form of punishment. “I told him, ‘Alright, I won’t press charges, but I’ll give you two light slaps,’” Casio recounted during an interview with TeleRadyo Serbisyo. The worker, he said, opted for the slaps. Casio admitted he delivered “a pair of slaps,” though he added with a mix of humor and regret that he accidentally delivered a third slap. Reflecting on the incident, Casio admitted, “I made a mistake there, in all honesty and fairness. I lost my temper.” He acknowledged that his reaction was wrong and expressed a willingness to accept any consequences, saying, “I’m ready to face the music.”

Despite the incident, Casio indicated that he was not yet ready to resign from his post, explaining, “At the end of the day, I have a much bigger mandate.” He emphasized the importance of continuing PAOCC’s mission to combat scamming activities, noting that stepping down would signal a victory for those engaged in such fraudulent activities. Casio stated, “This is a concerted effort to discredit not just me, but the entire commission.”

The POGO industry in the Philippines has faced intense scrutiny and criticism for its association with various crimes, including financial scams, kidnappings, prostitution, human trafficking, torture, and even murder. In July, President Ferdinand Marcos ordered the closure of the sector, condemning the industry’s “grave abuse and disrespect” for Philippine laws. Foreign workers involved in POGO operations have been given two months to leave the country under this ban.

The PAOCC’s actions, along with President Marcos’ ban, reflect a growing crackdown on the industry amid heightened concerns over its links to criminal activity and its impact on the country’s reputation and security.

Source: news.abs-cbn.com