Philippine police pledge continued crackdown on fragmented scam hubs post-POGO ban | Sea Insider

With the Philippines declared "POGO-free" earlier in 2026 after the total ban on offshore gaming operators, the PNP says smaller, less visible scam networks are still operating and vowed sustained enforcement.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. confirmed on June 14, 2026 that investigations continue into scam operations that restructured into smaller, decentralized cells in areas including Baclaran, Binondo, and Parañaque in Metro Manila, plus Palawan and Cebu. These are primarily labor-recruitment and cyber-fraud operations targeting job seekers (including foreign nationals lured with fake high-paying offers) rather than tourists directly, but travelers should still be wary of unsolicited "easy money" job offers encountered while in the country, and should book tours, transport and accommodation only through licensed operators.