By Louis ‘Barok‘ C. Biraogo

In a tangled web of corruption, Dennis Cunanan’s name resurfaces, entangled in another controversial issue—the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). A former government official, Cunanan was convicted of graft in 2023 for his involvement in the infamous pork barrel scam. Now, documents from 2020 reveal his connections to POGO operations in Porac, Pampanga, Laoag, Ilocos Norte, and Bamban, Tarlac. This revelation prompts a deeper examination of Cunanan’s actions, raising questions about legal, moral, and ethical violations and calling for further investigation into his activities.

Cunanan’s role in securing POGO licenses for Lucky South 99, and acting as a representative for Hongsheng Gaming Technology Inc., casts a shadow over his claims of incidental involvement. Despite assertions from his lawyer, Iryl Boco, that Cunanan’s association with these POGO entities was minor and concluded in October 2022, the documentation tells a different story. Cunanan not only applied for the POGO license of Lucky South 99 but also deposited the required dollar bonds and frequently transacted with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor). This level of involvement contradicts the notion of a mere consultant and suggests a deeper, more sustained engagement with these operations.

From a legal standpoint, Cunanan’s actions raise significant concerns. His submission of a personal disclosure statement to Pagcor in October 2020, in which he denied any prior convictions or charges, stands out as a blatant falsehood. By then, Cunanan had already been convicted of graft and malversation related to the PDAF of former Cotabato 2nd District representative Gregorio Ipong. This deceit not only breaches ethical standards but also constitutes a violation of legal protocols, undermining the integrity of the regulatory process.

Furthermore, Cunanan’s involvement with POGOs is fraught with moral and ethical implications. The POGO industry in the Philippines has been marred by allegations of trafficking, torture of workers, and other nefarious activities. By associating himself with entities implicated in such abuses, Cunanan’s actions reflect a disregard for basic human rights and ethical business practices. His history of corruption in the pork barrel scam adds a layer of cynicism to his current dealings, suggesting a pattern of exploiting public office for personal gain.

Counter-arguments from Cunanan’s camp emphasize his limited role and the outdated nature of the registration documents. His lawyer insists that Cunanan had no operational or managerial responsibilities within the POGO companies and that his involvement was restricted to the registration process. Yet, these defenses fall short in light of the substantial evidence of his active participation and the moral responsibility he bears for the broader implications of his actions.

Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros has rightly called for Cunanan’s inclusion in the ongoing Senate inquiries into illegal POGOs, highlighting the disturbing trend of POGOs employing former and present officials susceptible to corruption. This call for scrutiny is not merely about one individual’s transgressions but about addressing systemic issues within the regulatory and political framework that allow such activities to flourish.

To move forward, a comprehensive investigation into Cunanan’s involvement with POGOs is imperative. This should include a thorough review of all transactions, communications, and the true extent of his engagement with these entities. The investigation should not only focus on Cunanan but also examine the broader network of individuals and institutions that facilitated these operations, ensuring accountability at all levels.

Moreover, there is an urgent need for stricter regulatory measures and enforcement mechanisms to prevent similar abuses in the future. The POGO industry requires robust oversight to safeguard against human rights violations and ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards. Policymakers must also consider the broader implications of allowing such operations within the country and weigh the benefits against the potential harm to society.

The case of Dennis Cunanan serves as a stark reminder of the enduring challenges in combating corruption and upholding the rule of law. It underscores the necessity for vigilance, transparency, and accountability in all sectors of government and business. As this story unfolds, it is incumbent upon the authorities to pursue justice relentlessly, ensuring that those who betray the public trust are held accountable for their actions.

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