Porac, Pampanga Mayor Jaime "Jing" Capil has secured his temporary liberty after posting a bail of P630,000. This follows the filing of seven counts of graft against him on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, in connection with a notorious illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (Pogo) that operated in his town.
Voluntary Surrender and Court Proceedings
Facing the serious allegations, Mayor Capil chose to voluntarily surrender to authorities. Accompanied by his legal counsel, he presented himself at the Pasig City Regional Trial Court where he posted the required bail amount. The court has scheduled his arraignment and pre-trial for December 11, 2025.
In a statement to reporters after posting bail, Capil struck a defiant and service-oriented tone. "Just as I have faced all trials, I am not hiding. I am following the law. Thank you for the love and support of everyone, my family, friends, and especially for the unwavering love and understanding of my fellow Porac residents. I remain open to serving you again, Poraquenos," he said.
The Roots of the Graft Charges
The charges stem directly from the June 2024 police raid on an illegal Pogo facility named Lucky South 99 in Porac. The operation was shocking in its scale and brutality. Authorities apprehended at least 186 workers, both foreign and Filipino. Among them were at least four individuals identified as kidnap victims, with two found still handcuffed and bearing extensive bruises and marks of torture.
The Office of the Ombudsman found that Mayor Capil's alleged failure to regulate the Pogo's operation constituted gross neglect of duty. The case hinges on his official actions in 2019, when he signed the Mayor's permit and a municipal resolution expressing no objection. These documents were crucial for the Pogo firm to apply for its license, permit, and franchise.
Political Fallout and Public Trust
This legal battle adds another layer to Capil's controversial political journey. In April 2025, the Ombudsman ordered his dismissal from office due to this very case of gross neglect of duty. However, demonstrating a complex relationship with his constituents, Capil was re-elected in the May 2025 national and local elections, reclaiming his post as mayor.
The upcoming court proceedings will now test the weight of the evidence against him. The case highlights the ongoing national issue of illegal Pogos and the accountability of local officials tasked with regulating business operations within their jurisdictions. All eyes will be on the Pasig court on December 11 as this significant legal and political drama unfolds.
