Following an alleged incident of 'mistreatment' involving a Filipino national during a recent raid at a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Bagac, Bataan on October 31, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) Dir. Winston Casio issued an apology, acknowledging that his temper had gotten the best of him during the incident.
"No wrong can right another wrong; thus, I apologize for reacting as I did despite the provocation that we experienced during the raid we conducted at Central One Bataan last October 31, 2024," Casio said in a statement following his relief from his post as Spokesperson of the PAOCC on Tuesday.
According to Casio, he should have simply filed the appropriate charges against the person who made an obscene gesture at PAOCC officials and insulted their office.
He further stated that because of his actions, he let down the people who trust the Commission.
Casio also apologized to the Filipino people who placed their trust in the PAOCC. He further expressed his apologies to his superiors: Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the Chairman of PAOCC; and Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, PAOCC Executive Director.
"I have let them down. Despite this personal infraction on my part, I implore on the Filipino people not to associate my action with the Commission. This agency is manned by level-headed professionals," said Casio.
Casio emphasized that, as a team, they always put in more hours than what is typically required because they don't want to disappoint the people.
After his relief from the position, he mentioned that he would subject himself to whatever administrative measures the Commission may impose.
"No matter where this episode will lead me, I will continue to serve the Filipino people in whatever capacity," he said in closing.
PAOCC Executive Director Usec. Gilberto Cruz reported that the incident stemmed from a commotion that occurred after processing over 800 Filipinos employed at the site and informing them that they would be released.
A Filipino man cursed at them and flashed his dirty finger at the PAOCC officials and a few members of the media, which provoked Casio.
Casio will be subjected to an administrative investigation while being temporarily relieved of his post.
On November 4, Usec. Cruz issued a memorandum to Director Casio, directing him to provide an explanation regarding the incident.
