House quad-panel cites Cassandra Ong for contempt anew

Katherine Cassandra Li Ong, an incorporator of Whirlwind Corporation, was presented before the House of Representatives’ quad-committee to hear her side regarding issues surrounding the raided Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) hub in Porac, Pampanga. Whirlwind leased land to Pogo hub Lucky South 99, but several lawmakers believe that Ong is possibly involved in both companies. (Photo from the House of Representatives media bureau)

MANILA, Philippines — Katherine Cassandra Li Ong, a stakeholder of Whirlwind Corporation which leased land to the raided Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) hub in Porac, Pampanga, was again cited for contempt for refusing to answer queries by House lawmakers.

At the second part of the hearing of the House quad-panel, committee on human rights chairperson and Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido Abante moved to cite Ong for contempt, as she continuously refused to answer questions, saying she is invoking her right against self-incrimination.

Ong changed her answers, replying with a more direct “I refuse to testify,” prompting Abante to make the motion.

Abante’s motion was seconded by Antipolo 2nd District Rep. Romeo Acop.

1-Rider party-list Rep. Ramon Rodrigo Gutierrez and Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong asked that Ong be given a chance to explain why she refused to answer, but she still decided against giving a reply.

Eventually, it was decided that Ong would be detained at the Correctional Institute for Women until the quad-committee comes out with a committee report.

Ong is said to have a 58 percent stake at Whirlwind, which leased land to Lucky South 99 in Porac. However, lawmakers believe Ong is also part of Lucky South 99 as several resource persons testified to her involvement.

At least 186 foreign and Filipino workers were rescued from the Porac Pogo hub, which was raided last June 4 over human trafficking concerns.

Ong was detained at the House last Aug. 26 after she and Shiela Guo, the alleged sister of dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo, were arrested in Indonesia and deported back to the Philippines.

READ: Cassandra Ong now detained at House premises – Barbers