A coordinated operation involving the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), and the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) led to the arrest of several foreign nationals involved in illegal activities, including kidnapping and illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO), on March 19, 2025, at Grande Island in Subic Bay.
The operation, directed by NBI Director Judge Jaime Santiago, resulted in the capture of six Chinese nationals and two Filipino individuals. Among the arrested was Chinese national Qiu Feng, also known as Ye Tianwu or Qing Feng, who faces charges under Republic Act 8799 (Securities Regulation Code) and RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012).
In addition to Ye Tianwu, other individuals arrested include Chinese nationals Xu Xining, Ye Xiaocan, Su Anlong, and He Peng, along with Cambodian national Ang Deck/Dick and Filipinos Melvin Mañosa Aguillon, Jr. and Jeffrey Espiridion, employees of Ang Deck/Dick. Authorities seized several cellphones, laptops, a 9mm caliber firearm, and 16 rounds of ammunition during the operation.
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño praised the collaborative efforts of the NBI and other agencies in ensuring the safety and security of Subic Bay, emphasizing that “Subic Bay Freeport is NOT a safe haven for lawbreakers.”
The arrests have shed light on the unlawful operations, including suspected espionage and kidnapping activities, linked to the POGO industry. Some foreign nationals were reportedly using Grande Island as a cover for illegal activities, which may be part of a broader criminal network posing risks to national security.
The Department of National Defense (DND) has confirmed the reports and announced plans to collaborate with the SBMA and other relevant agencies to explore the possibility of designating Grande Island and nearby Chiquita Island as military reservations. This move is expected to enhance security in the area, particularly regarding the Subic Special Economic Zone, the Riviera Wharf, and the Subic Bay International Airport, while also supporting the development of the Philippine Navy’s naval operating base along the western seaboard.
