INQUIRER FILES MANILA, Philippines — A company in Mexico, Pampanga has disputed allegations of being a Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo), saying they are a recycling firm. In a statement on Wednesday, Infinity Eight Trading and Marketing Corporation (Infinity Eight) said they are supportive of the government’s efforts to rid the country of illegal activities linked to Pogos — proof of which was the firm opening its doors to House of Representatives lawmakers. Infinity Eight legal counsel Stephen Jaromay said they briefed the House contingent led by Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez when lawmakers visited the compound last Monday.
“[The company] is fully supportive of the efforts of Congress to shut down Pogos and to combat illegal drugs,” Jaromay said. “We likewise welcome the opportunity to clarify any misconceptions or misunderstandings about the nature of Infinity Eight’s operations.” In several hearings of the House committee on dangerous drugs, Infinity Eight was mentioned as one of the compounds in Mexico town suspected of being a Pogo hub.
During the panel’s hearing on June 19, lawmakers scolded Barangay Captain Alfredo David of Lagundi, Mexico as he insisted that Infinity Eight’s 10-hectare compound was a junk shop. However, Mexico Mayor Rodencio Gonzales said he saw “luxury buildings” in the compound, even likening it to a five-star hotel. Committee chairperson and Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep.
Robert Ace Barbers said they have.