BI Nabs Alleged Baccarat Boys Kingpin in Crackdown on Online Gambling

BI Nabs Alleged Baccarat Boys Kingpin in Crackdown on Online Gambling

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.COM | December 5, 2025

PARAÑAQUE, Philippines – In a significant blow to illegal online gambling operations, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) has apprehended a Chinese national wanted in his home country for allegedly masterminding a vast network of illicit online casinos.

The arrest underscores the Marcos Jr. administration’s unwavering commitment to eradicating online gaming activities within the Philippines.

Acting on a tip from Chinese authorities, agents from the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) swooped down on a residence in Brgy. Tambo, Parañaque City, on Dec. 2, taking Wu Huifu, 38, and his alleged accomplice, Li Yong, 48, into custody.

According to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, Wu is the subject of an arrest warrant issued by the Binzhou Public Security Bureau in January 2025, accusing him of “illegally running casinos.”

The Chinese government alleges that Wu and his network established numerous overseas online gambling platforms, luring in Chinese nationals through deceptive online advertising.

The scheme involved exploiting vulnerable players through manipulative tactics, including excessive withdrawal requirements and rigged gambling conditions designed to prolong playtime and drain participants’ funds.

Authorities estimate the operation victimized approximately 500,000 individuals, generating illicit profits exceeding CNY 8.6 million.

Li Yong is believed to have served as Wu’s assistant and also faces an arrest warrant in China.

Prior to his arrest, Wu was reportedly employed by a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO).

However, he remained in the country after the industry’s ban last year, prompting Philippine immigration to add him to its derogatory database.

Commissioner Viado emphasized the collaborative effort between the BI and its international counterparts in dismantling remnant POGO operations.

“We will not allow POGO operations to take root in our country again. If you are involved in illegal gaming, we will find you, arrest you, and remove you from the Philippines,” he declared.

The arrest of Wu Huifu sends a clear message to those involved in illegal online gambling: the Philippines will not serve as a haven for criminal activity. The BI’s continued crackdown on these operations demonstrates its resolve to uphold the law and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.