MANILA: Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) spokesperson Winston Casio has been relieved from his post and is under administrative investigation following allegations of mistreatment of a Filipino national during a raid on a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hub in Bagac, Bataan, as confirmed by Malacañang on Tuesday. In a communication to Palace reporters, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin stated that Casio was ordered to “explain actuations in writing.”

According to Philippines News Agency, footage of Casio slapping a POGO worker during the October 31 raid circulated on social media, prompting a swift response from PAOCC. A memorandum issued on Monday mandated Casio to submit a written explanation within 24 hours and informed him that he has been “relieved of [his] responsibilities as spokesperson for PAOCC effective immediately and until the completion of the investigation.”

The memorandum also noted, “The incident occurred following the execution of a Search Warrant at that lo
cation and is reported to have been documented, with the footage now circulating on social media platforms.” It further emphasized the importance of Casio’s immediate response, stating that any failure to provide an explanation would be considered a waiver of his right to contribute to the process.

In light of the incident, Casio has issued an apology to Executive Secretary Bersamin, Executive Director Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, and his colleagues at PAOCC. He admitted that he “should have simply filed the necessary charges against the person who flashed the dirty finger at us and insulted our office with vitriol,” acknowledging that his temper got the better of him.

Casio urged the public not to judge the entire PAOCC workforce based on his actions. “The agency is manned by level-headed professionals. And as a team, we always put in work hours that what is normally required because we do not want to disappoint the people. I have disappointed all of them; therefore, I have apologized to them as well,” he
stated.

As he reflects on his actions, Casio has expressed his willingness to accept any administrative measures imposed by the Commission. “No matter where this episode will lead me, I will continue to serve the Filipino people in whatever capacity,” he concluded.