The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) led by its chair, Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin, convened a dialogue with leaders of the Tsinoy community at the Malacanañg Palace on May 8 to address the spike in kidnappings, extortion and police abuses linked to the remnants of illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
The meeting recognized the steep increase in kidnapping-for-ransom incidents involving foreign nationals, the majority being Tsinoys, and warned that there are already 15 incidents this year, with several of the high-profile cases resulting in murder even after ransom payment, compared to the data of 26 kidnappings in 2023 and 32 in 2024.
The group, composed of representatives of civic organizations such as the Movement for Restoration of Peace and Order (MRPO), Kaisa Para Sa Kaunlaran, Inc., the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) discussed variances in data and accounts of law enforcement operations previously conducted that may have affected the Tsinoy community and local businesses.
Bersamin asserted the government was committed to restoring public trust and dismantling the criminal syndicates that prey on foreign national victims.
“This forum is an important step forward. It is a declaration of our collective resolve—from law enforcement agencies to private stakeholders—to act swiftly and decisively. Through this multisectoral effort, we aim to identify gaps, share intelligence, protect vulnerable groups, and support policies that deter this heinous crime”, said Bersamin.
In response to growing public concern, Bersamin emphasized the need for a whole-of-government approach to address kidnapping-for-ransom. This approach involves the strengthened coordination of various government agencies, with the PNP-AKG playing a key role in an integrated, responsive effort against kidnapping threats.
The civic leaders strongly advocated institutionalizing close coordination between businesses and law enforcement to ensure timely, transparent, and effective investigations. They also proposed a series of strategic initiatives
to improve protection and rebuild community trust. These include the expansion of the Community Assistance, Safety, and Support Network help desk program to other key areas and deploying Mandarin-speaking liaison officers to assist victims and witnesses.
PAOCC Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz expressed optimism about the ongoing initiatives, stating, “With renewed partnerships and concrete reforms underway, there is hope that safety, justice, and dignity can be restored for the Filipino-Chinese and all who call the Philippines home.”
Source: Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission’s Facebook Post, May 12, 2025 https://www.facebook.com/61556783108124/posts/122231680682226103/?rdid=CNebPryH4rJCTTlJ#