MANILA, Philippines— A Chinese woman suspected of being involved in illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) activities was arrested, according to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Friday. 

Fortunato Manahan Jr., chief of the BI’s intelligence division, confirmed that Pan Meishu, also known as Hannah, 49, was apprehended inside a hotpot restaurant in Pasay City on Thursday.

Pan is allegedly linked to Zun Yuan Technology, an offshore gaming operation in Bamban, Tarlac, which was previously raided by authorities over claims of criminal and human trafficking activities.

Zun Yuan, formerly known as Hongsheng Gaming Technology Inc., is also connected to ongoing investigations involving former Bamban Mayor Alice Leal Guo.

“These companies engaged in illegal activities have no place in the country,” BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said. 

“More arrests will follow as we continue our crackdown on illegal POGO operations,” he said.

Pan is currently in BI custody while facing deportation proceedings.

All POGO closed down

The arrest came after the  largest POGO compound, located in Kawit, Cavite, was officially shut down on Tuesday.

Tengco confirmed that all POGO hubs across the country have now ceased operations. 

While acknowledging the financial impact of the total POGO ban, which is estimated to result in P20 billion in lost government revenue, Tengco expressed optimism that the issuance of new gaming licenses would help offset the loss.

Under Executive Order 74, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos in November, all POGOs must suspend operations by December 31. 

The order mandates a nationwide ban on Philippine offshore gaming, internet gaming, and other related offshore gaming activities.