MANILA — The Court of Appeals (CA) has dismissed the petition of Katherine Cassandra Li Ong questioning her indictment for qualified human trafficking over alleged involvement in the operations of a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hub in Porac, Pampanga.

In a seven-page resolution dated June 25, the CA Special 13th Division ruled that Ong’s petition was “premature,” noting her failure to first seek reconsideration from the Department of Justice (DOJ).

“In not availing of a motion for reconsideration and an available appeal, petitioner deprived [Prosecutor General Richard] Fadullon and the [Secretary of Justice] of the opportunity to review the findings of their respective subordinates and to correct any errors,” the court said.

The CA also rejected Ong’s claim that her right to due process was violated, noting that public expressions of confidence by DOJ leadership in their prosecutors did not amount to pre-judgment.

Ong is among over 50 individuals, including former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, charged in connection with the operations of Lucky South 99 Corp. The POGO hub was raided by authorities over alleged trafficking activities.

She was intercepted along with Alice Guo and Shiela Guo in Indonesia last year after fleeing the Philippines. (PNA)