POGO vaults opened: Cash, ledgers found

CEBU, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation-Cebu District Office (CEBDO) opened yesterday the seven vaults found inside the office of Chinese national Zhao Shou Qi, the alleged owner of the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub located at the compound of Tourist Garden Hotel in Barangay Agus, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

NBI-CEBDO head Arnel Pura said that the items inside the vaults include P400,000 cash, ledgers, and accounting books.

“Ato-a sad nakita ang lease contract signed by Zhao Shou Qi. Ang kontrata is for the entire compound, starting in 2018 until 2038,” said Pura.

He also said that there were also cash coupons, bills, coins, and documents with writings in Chinese characters.

“Di nato mabasta-basta tungod sa kadaghan,” Pura explained when asked about what was written in the documents.

He said that upon completion of the inventory, the seized items will be turned over to the courts.

“I-return nato sa court then we will file a manifestation kung pwede they take custody of the seized items because we will be evaluating as to its substance to the investigation, as possible evidence,” Pura said.

The NBI-CEBDO will bring the seized items to the court today.

Pura said that the evidence they gathered will be used to bolster the seven counts of qualified trafficking against the 17 accused, who include Zhao Shou Qi, and the anti-money laundering case that they will file against Zhao Shou Qi and his son Zhao Long.

“Wa pa namo na file ang anti-money laundering case…. We are still on a case build up. We will also see if our evidence will merit the filing of the same charges against the other accused,” Pura said.

The vaults were opened over two months after the NBI raided Tourist Garden Hotel last August 31 and initially rescued 169 foreign nationals. Later, 16 of the foreigners plus a Filipino were charged over the ‘POGO’ operation.

Aside from rescuing the foreign nationals, the NBI also seized electronic devices believed to be used in illegal cybercrime operations.

Trial for the 17 accused would commence on Jan. 27, 2025 and expected to last until the latter part of 2026. — (FREEMAN)