Makati Mayor Abby Binay issued a stern warning to businesses misrepresenting their operations, emphasizing the city’s commitment to upholding lawful practices and protecting legitimate enterprises.
“Makati will exercise zero tolerance for these businesses. We are determined to protect the interest of legitimate businesses that keep our economy strong and stable,” Binay said.
The warning follows the closure of Flying Future Services, Inc., an establishment operating offshore gaming activities despite holding a permit as an Information Technology (IT) company. The Makati Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO), under Binay’s directive, revoked the firm’s business license on Monday for violating Sections 4A.05, 4A.10, and 4A.15 of the Revised Makati Revenue Code (City Ordinance No. 2004-A-025). Violators of this ordinance face penalties including imprisonment of six months to one year or fines ranging from P5,000 to P50,000.
The BPLO chief, Maribert Pagente, credited vigilant citizens for aiding in the identification of illegal operations. “We have successfully apprehended errant establishments over the past years after acting on information relayed by concerned citizens. We urge the public to remain vigilant and promptly inform our office of any establishment operating illegally in the city,” Pagente said.
Last year alone, BPLO shut down 118 establishments for various violations, with 22 closures recorded from January to date.
Flying Future Services was raided on March 19 by operatives from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG). Approximately 200 individuals of various nationalities were arrested during the operation. The suspects face charges under Republic Act 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act), Presidential Decree 1602 (Illegal Gambling), and Republic Act 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act). They are currently detained at CIDG Southern District Field Unit.
The Makati Legal Department is reviewing additional charges against Flying Future Services’ owners as part of the city government’s broader crackdown on illegal business practices.
