The search for Cassandra Li Ong has intensified as the Department of Justice announced a P1-million reward for any information that could pinpoint her whereabouts. Ong, linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator Lucky South 99, is wanted for qualified human trafficking and remains unaccounted for despite multiple arrest orders.
The reward was confirmed after a Pasig City court voided the passports of Ong, former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, and several others facing the same charges. The Department of Foreign Affairs has already enforced the passport cancellations, a directive that Justice Undersecretary Nicky Ty said is “final and executory.”
Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida revealed the bounty during a Nov. 25 media briefing, stressing that authorities are seeking “credible actionable information that will directly lead to the lawful discovery, location, and subsequent arrest” of Ong. He noted the hurdles investigators have faced in determining her movements. “Definitely, with the current information that we have, we don’t have enough. That’s why we’re offering the reward. And it’s an effective tool,” he said.
Vida pointed out that Ong and her associates have previously managed to travel undetected. “Batid naman po natin sa nakalipas ay may kakayanan sila. May kakayanan na umikot, gumalaw, at makalabas at pumasok ng Pilipinas nang hindi natutukoy,” he said.
Ong’s absence was first brought to public attention by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, who disclosed that she was no longer in custody after being released from the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission later reported that her last known location was in Japan. PAOCC spokesman Winston Casio also confirmed that a red notice from the International Police Organization has been issued.
The case stems from a May order by an Angeles, Pampanga court directing the arrest of Ong, Roque, and their co-accused over alleged human trafficking tied to a POGO hub.
