The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) on Friday said that 18 Chinese military uniforms were found in the raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO) hub in Porac, Pampanga.
PAOCC Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz shared details of their initial investigation during an interview with Super Radyo dzBB, indicating that the uniforms varied and were still undergoing verification for authenticity.
“So far, we have found 18 sets. They are not identical, and we are still in the process of confirming their authenticity,” Cruz said in the interview.
Some uniforms bore “P.L.A.” buttons, suspected to refer to the People’s Liberation Army, the armed organization of the Chinese Communist Party.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines suggested these uniforms might have been used as props in illegal online activities. Additionally, a Chinese military sergeant’s badge was found, raising further questions about potential involvement by a veteran Chinese officer.
Cruz emphasized that the PAOCC is eyeing to investigate former uniformed personnel associated with the POGO.
Six more buildings within the 10-hectare compound remain to be searched following the initial raid last week, which rescued over 150 individuals.