Authorities have uncovered extensive water pumping stations at raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs located in Bamban, Tarlac, and Porac, Pampanga, according to Saleema Refran’s report on “24 Oras” Friday.
Discovery of Water Pumping Stations
The Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) discovered a deep well pumping station near the dormitory of the Baofu Land Development Inc. Compound in Bamban. This station, which spans two floors and houses large machines and a water reservoir, supplies water to the entire compound. Despite being connected to the local water district, PAOCC suspects that the POGO hub might not be paying the correct amount for its water consumption.
“Ang iniisip namin, yung resibo na yun is parang front niya lang nitong POGO hub na ito para sabihin nagbabayad siya ng water,” said PAOCC Executive Director Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz.
Concerns Over Water Usage and Land Stability
Acting Bamban Mayor Leonardo Anunciacion expressed concerns about potential land erosion due to the large volume of water being extracted, indicating that the local government would investigate further.
Additional Findings in Porac
In Porac, Pampanga, five underground deep well pumping stations were found at the Lucky South 99 compound. These stations were discovered as the POGO hub had not received any water bills, raising suspicions. PAOCC lawyer Ernesto Tendero highlighted the potential environmental impact, stating, “We know the effects of excessive underground extraction of water. The ground will erode. We should remember that this land is agricultural and they will extract that water just to meet their supply.”
Regulatory Inspections and Violations
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) inspected the two POGO hubs. The NWRB report indicated that both hubs were extracting large volumes of water without permits. The DENR also noted numerous violations at these sites prior to the raids.