CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Police Regional Office 3 Director Brig. Gen. Jose S. Hidalgo Jr., has addressed recent unverified claims in some newspapers regarding the deaths of 65 foreign nationals near Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) hubs.
“Our records indicate a total of 51 incidents, with 33 recorded from January 2019 to February 21, 2023, and 25 of these being non-crime related. Among these, 19 were due to natural death, 4 to suicide, 1 to drowning, and 1 to self-accident.
Notably, none of these incidents are connected in any manner to POGOs,” stated Gen. Hidalgo, “Since I assumed office on February 22, 2023, we have recorded only 18 cases: 5 due to natural death, 3 to suicide, and 1 to self-accident, with most incidents occurring far distant from POGO hubs.”
A significant incident occurred on June 23, 2023, along the SCTEX access road in Brgy Hacienda Dolores, Porac, Pampanga. This is initially reported as found dead bodies but as the investigation progress, it was actually a shooting incident that resulted in the deaths of three Chinese nationals from Pasay City, linked to casino junket operations. The case was swiftly resolved and criminal charges were filed against the suspects.
Additionally, on November 19, 2023, a Chinese national who was allegedly kidnapped in Binondo, Manila, was found and rescued in Brgy Manauli, Porac. Unfortunately, his companion was later discovered dead in Brgy Mancaitan, Porac. This case was promptly solved in coordination with the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group.”
Hidalgo emphasized PRO3’s active collaboration with other agencies to ensure that thorough investigations of all reported criminal incidents are being undertaken. He urged the media to keenly verify gathered information if they are accurate before publishing a report to prevent unnecessary panic and alarm caused by unverified publications.
“Despite adverse reports that impact on the morale of our personnel, we remain committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone in Central Luzon, conducive to living, working, studying, and doing business,” he concluded. (UnliNews Online)
