Seven individuals allegedly involved in illegal online gambling operations were arrested in Quezon City, Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) said in a live stream aired on Thursday.
The raid was a joint operation by CICC, Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).
The investigation, which began in July, was triggered when a former PCSO-authorized agent was found managing an online gambling site with an expired contract with the agency.
Authorities confiscated mobile devices and other equipment used to facilitate illegal betting.
The seven suspects face charges under the Cybercrime Prevention Act (RA 10175) and Presidential Decree No. 1602, which prescribes criminal liabilities for illegal gambling.
PCSO Shield Chair Orlando Malaca said the illegal operation was siphoning revenue directly from government coffers.
“When revenue that should go to the national treasury is lost, it directly impacts those who rely on the PCSO, particularly those in need of medical assistance,” Malaca said. — Marlon Magtira
