China-focused online casinos in the Philippines under Rodrigo Duterte’s presidency are under scrutiny for possible ties to international crime syndicates. Senator Risa Hontiveros revealed connections between these gambling operations and foreign criminal groups, raising concerns about money laundering and espionage.
The investigation has uncovered links to a Singapore money-laundering case involving Chinese nationals, leading to suspicions of illicit activities in Philippine gambling. The case of dismissed mayor Alice Guo, who fled to evade charges, further deepened the probe and raised citizenship questions.
Philippine authorities have since filed complaints against Guo and her associates for alleged involvement in an illegal offshore gambling ring, highlighting the pervasive reach of transnational crime in the online casino industry. The inquiry has captured national attention and shed light on the shadowy underbelly of foreign-operated casinos in the country.