By Rene Malferrari
Cagayan de Oro City – In a bold assertion on Monday, Senate Deputy Minority Floor Leader Risa Hontiveros connected the controversial Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (Pogos) with the Pharmally scandal, alleging that both are part of a larger syndicate operating not only in the Philippines but across Asia.
Hontiveros stated that the ongoing investigations into Pogos—known for their legal and illegal gambling operations—and the Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation, which was embroiled in controversy during the COVID-19 pandemic for overpricing medical supplies, reveal a troubling pattern of collusion. “We suspect that those behind Pogos and the Pharmally scam are interconnected, forming a syndicate that has exploited both our economy and our people,” she said.
The recent arrest of Tony Yang, the older brother of Michael Yang, a former economic adviser to President Rodrigo Duterte, has intensified scrutiny. Tony Yang is wanted for alleged involvement in the Pharmally scandal, which raised eyebrows due to its close ties to government officials. Hontiveros emphasized that the revelations are part of a broader investigation where “we are slowly and carefully connecting the dots,” alongside former Senators Kiko Pangilinan, Bam Aquino, and lawyer Chel Diokno.
The senator disclosed that her investigative group has faced threats from individuals affiliated with what she described as a “very well-entrenched syndicate.” Despite the intimidation, Hontiveros reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing the truth, stating, “It’s okay to be afraid, but we are not cowed. We owe our kababayans our commitment to ferret out the truth.”
The Pharmally scandal has been under the microscope since it was discovered that the company secured contracts worth billions of pesos for pandemic-related supplies, including face masks and face shields, raising questions about transparency and the bidding process. Allegations of overpricing and lack of proper qualifications for the contracts have fueled public outrage.
Pogos, on the other hand, have faced criticism for their impact on local communities and their association with illegal activities, including money laundering and human trafficking. These gaming operations have drawn significant attention from lawmakers seeking to regulate or ban them altogether.
As Hontiveros and her colleagues continue their investigations, they aim to uncover the extent of corruption that may link these two scandals, urging the public to remain vigilant and informed. “This isn’t just about politics; it’s about protecting the rights and well-being of our citizens,” she concluded.
The Philippine Senate has previously conducted hearings regarding both Pogos and Pharmally, where testimonies and evidence have suggested deep-seated corruption. The implications of these investigations extend beyond individual culpability, hinting at a pervasive culture of impunity within certain sectors of the government.
As the investigation progresses, it will be crucial for lawmakers and the public alike to monitor developments and hold accountable those who exploit systems meant to serve the public good. ###
