Katherine Cassandra Ong, who is connected to the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Porac, Pampanga, is facing a trafficking charge without bail following her arrest and legislative scrutiny.
On Tuesday, September 10, the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG) and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) filed a trafficking case with the Department of Justice. The case accuses Ong of violating Republic Act No. 9208, or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, as amended by RA No. 10364 and RA No. 11862.
The allegations are connected to Ong's involvement in Lucky South 99 in Porac, which was raided for suspected human trafficking activities. Authorities detailed Ong's connection to POGO:
- Ong is the authorized representative of Lucky South 99.
- He is the signatory to POGO's application for an Internet Gaming License to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) in 2023.
- He holds a 58% share in Whirlwind Corporation, the real estate firm that leased the property in Lucky South, with a total investment of PHP 181,250.
Ong was invited by the House of Representatives to discuss his connection to Lucky South 99 but failed to attend, resulting in an arrest warrant. He was only able to participate in the hearings after being arrested in Indonesia, deported back to the Philippines, and placed under House custody.
Key Respondents in the Case
- Zhang Jie: A Singaporean and president of Lucky South 99, with 40% share in the company. He was prevented from leaving the country in June due to visa issues and is on trial along with Ong and others. Zhang is also listed in the immigration lookout bulletin.
- Duanren Wu: A Chinese director of Whirlwind Corporation with a 20% share. He is known for his connection with Ong and his role in the establishment of Whirlwind in 2019. The Senate called him for investigation.
- Ronelyn Baterna: Corporate secretary for Lucky South 99 and administrative officer for Lucky South and Whirlwind. Baterna, who served as Ong's personal assistant, was cited in contempt for inconsistent answers but is now cooperating with investigators.
- Dennis Cunanan: Head of communications and government relations for Lucky South 99, involved in the company's application for the Pagcor license and was previously convicted of graft in the pork barrel scam. He is also connected to the operation in Laoag City and the POGO in Bamban, Tarlac.
Importance of the Case
The trafficking charge is one of the most serious accusations Ong faces amid ongoing investigations into his alleged connection to POGO. Ong was previously charged with disobedience to authority and obstruction of justice, which are bailable charges. However, the trafficking charges are non-bailable, meaning Ong could face detention or imprisonment if there is enough evidence and the court issues a warrant.
Ong is also linked to former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, whom Ong hired for Whirlwind and later contacted Porac POGO.
Senator Risa Hontiveros emphasized Ong's important role in the ongoing investigation, saying that her testimony is important for uncovering other implications related to Lucky South 99. Ong sought help from the Supreme Court to exercise his right to remain silent in legislative hearings.
