Two Former Chinese POGO Workers Arrested for Extortion in Parañaque

Authorities successfully apprehended two former Chinese employees of a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Parañaque City for extortion during a carefully orchestrated entrapment operation. The incident came to light after a Chinese complainant reported receiving a photo showing his friend restrained outside the Parañaque Police Station, accompanied by demands for money from the suspects.

The complainant disclosed that he had already paid approximately ₱50,000 in two separate transactions to secure his friend’s release. However, suspicion arose when the suspects requested a third payment. Concerned, he reached out through his friend to the Parañaque Police Station to verify the arrest of any Chinese nationals. The police confirmed that no individual fitting that description had been detained.

Southern Police District Director Police Brigadier General Randy Arceo explained, "Upon the third demand from the suspects, the complainant became suspicious and contacted the police station, discovering that no Chinese national had been apprehended."

The detained individuals now face charges of robbery-extortion, as their monetary demands were coupled with threatening behavior. Further investigation revealed that one of the suspects is reportedly a fugitive in China, linked to a credit card fraud case.

Authorities continue to probe the matter as the suspects have yet to make an official statement.