The Philippine National Police (PNP) defended its capabilities in dismantling criminal hubs, following the recent raid at Century Peak Tower in Manila, where 69 foreign nationals were arrested in connection with online scams, illegal gambling, and human trafficking.
According to a report by RH Edniel Parrosa, PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil credited the successful operation to the PNP’s rigorous intelligence work, conducted with support from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
"This operation is a testament to the dedication of our PNP-ACG personnel, whose relentless pursuit of justice has exposed and disrupted a significant hub of criminal activity," said Marbil.
Marbil’s statement comes a day after the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) expressed dissatisfaction with the raid, criticizing the PNP for allegedly failing to consult with both PAOCC and the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
Following the operation, the foreign suspects were released due to a lack of proper paperwork before they could be turned over to BI custody.
In response, Marbil emphasized that the PNP and NBI have the specialized skills required to combat cybercrime, asserting that these agencies are best equipped to address the complexity of these cases.
According to the PNP Public Information Office, the operations targeting cybercrimes are executed exclusively by the PNP and the NBI, as these agencies possess the specialized skills necessary to address such offenses.
Marbil also pledged continued coordination with the NBI in the government’s campaign to eliminate illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), a key priority for President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.
"We have two months to go to clear the country of these illegal POGOs," the PNP Chief noted.
