The Philippines’ Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) said Monday that it would launch an investigation into the alleged money laundering of junket operators 9 Dynasty Group and White Horse Club, as well as their VIP players, following revelations they were involved in the kidnap and murder of a local businessman.
It also confirmed reports that the two junkets had ceased their junket operations “in most, if not all” Philippine casinos as of 7 May 2025. It was previously reported by local media that Manila resorts Solaire, Okada Manila and Newport World Resorts, among others, had hosted one or both of the groups.
Businessman Anson Que and his driver were kidnapped and murdered in Bulacan in early April, with their bodies discovered in Rizal on 9 April despite Que’s family having previously paid a Php200 million (US$3.6 million) ransom for his release.
Authorities identified the e-wallet accounts of 9 Dynasty Group and White Horse Club as having been used as conduits for the ransom money, which was originally paid in peso and US dollars before being converted to cryptocurrency.
A substantial amount of the ransom, at least US$1.4 million, was later withdrawn using controversial Cambodian-based financial company Huione Pay.
In a Monday statement, the AMLC said it was working closely with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and gaming regulator PAGCOR to investigate the alleged money laundering of the ransom money paid.
“The illicit scheme reportedly utilized e-wallets intended exclusively for casino gaming, shell accounts and cryptocurrency to obscure the money trail,” it said, adding that while 9 Dynasty Group and White Horse Club had ceased domestic operations, “the AMLC remains steadfast in its commitment to probe their alleged money laundering activities.
“The AMLC is actively collaborating with the PNP to gather evidence on the unlawful activities, tracing the ransom funds in all their forms and pursuing forfeiture proceedings.
“The investigation extends beyond the kidnappers who directed the ransom payment process. It also targets casino players within these junket operations who initially received the ransom funds via their e-wallets.”
The agency added that it is coordinating with the BSP central bank and the Securities and Exchange Commission, and with foreign financial intelligence units, to gather more information on the movement of funds originating from the Philippines.
“Through this ongoing investigation, the AMLC reaffirms its dedication to upholding financial integrity, supporting the immediate resolution of this case, and ensuring that the Philippine financial system does not become a conduit for illicit activities,” it said.
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