MANILA – Retired Gen. Benjamin Acorda, former chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), vehemently denied allegations of his involvement with illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and the escape of dismissed Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo.
According to Philippines News Agency, Acorda addressed the accusations in a phone interview with Crame beat reporters, stating, “I can say to anybody squarely, eye to eye, without flinching an eye that we are clean regarding Alice Guo. We don’t have anything to do with her escape. I also do not accept money from her.” This statement comes after a Senate hearing displayed photos of Acorda with individuals linked to POGOs, raising questions about his associations.
Acorda stressed that any interactions he had related to POGOs were legal and strictly professional. He explained, “If ever they approached me or I could help in matters that would benefit the country, it was always legal. I do not engage in illegal transactions. That’s all I can say.” He also clarified his role in directing operations against illegal gaming operations, particularly noting his command of a raid on Zun Yuan Technology, Inc. in Bamban last March.
The former PNP chief expressed his distress over the allegations, especially after the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality inquiry into illegal POGO operations showcased photos linking him to controversial figures like Mindanao-based businessman Tony Yang and Sual Mayor Liseldo ‘Dong’ Calugay. Despite the controversy, Acorda remains confident in his service, stating, “All I can say is that as a Filipino, I think I have done everything that I should have done, particularly in terms of national security and as a law enforcement officer, without fear or favor.”
The inquiry into the illegal POGO operations continues, with further investigations into the implications surrounding high-profile individuals and their potential connections to these activities.