P1 Million on the Line: Government Launches Massive Manhunt for POGO-Linked Fugitive Cassandra Ong
CASSANDRA ONG – Authorities are doubling down on the search for Cassandra Li Ong, whose disappearance has prompted a hefty P1-million reward from the DOJ.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued a P1-million reward for anyone who can provide reliable information that will lead to the capture of Cassandra Li Ong, who is now being treated as a fugitive. Ong faces several charges before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Pasig City over her alleged involvement in the illegal operations of a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO). Authorities have been unable to locate her in recent months.
In a media briefing, Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida highlighted the government’s firm commitment to finding Ong and ensuring she appears in court. He explained that the DOJ is prepared to grant the reward to anyone who can offer credible details about her location. He also noted that the department has set aside the necessary budget to support this initiative.
“Ang DOJ formally announcing P1 million reward for credible, actionable information that will directly lead to the lawful discovery, location and subsequent arrest by authorized law enforcement agent of Cassandra Li Ong, who is presently the subject of ongoing criminal proceedings before the Regional Trial Court of Pasig City,” said Vida. He continued, “Itong bagay na ito, naglagak po ng kaukulang pondo ang Department of Justice para po mapanagot natin at maiharap natin sa Korte si Miss Ong.”
Vida pointed out that the search has become more urgent, stressing that Ong has the ability to move around unnoticed and enter or leave the country without detection. As he mentioned, “Batid naman po natin sa nakalipas na may kakayahan sila na umikot, gumalaw, makalabas, at pumasok ng Pilipinas na hindi natutukoy ng ating…” He also emphasized the need to bring her before the court so the legal proceedings can continue, saying, “Ito po ay bahagi para po madala natin siya sa Korte para umusad na ‘yong kaso laban kay Miss Ong.”
Senator Win Gatchalian previously disclosed that Ong has been out of detention for some time, fueling renewed pressure to intensify the search for her. The Pasig RTC has already revoked her passport, along with those of former Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Harry Roque and Technology Resource Center officials Dennis Cunanan, Ronelyn Baterna, and Mercides Macabasa.
They are all facing human trafficking charges tied to the operations of the POGO hubs Lucky South 99 and Whirlwind Corporation.
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