By Jeffrey Damicog The Department of Justice (DOJ) is working closely with the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) in investigating alleged money laundering activities supposedly committed by Chinese nationals. “The Department of Justice works very closely with the Anti-money Laundering Council,” DOJ Undersecretary Adrian Sugay told reporters on Wednesday (March 4). “We also made instructions and also coordinated with the AMLC to make sure that this matter is looked into.” Sugay, who has supervision over the National Prosecution Service (NPS), made the assurance despite allegations made by Sen. Richard Gordon that the AMLC is doing nothing to stop the illegal activities that stemmed from the emergence of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in the country. “These things kasi you have to do things very carefully, very deliberately,” Sugay told reporters. “And we also want to make sure that the work is done properly.” Sugay said the DOJ has already assured the AMLC that “if there appropriate complaints or criminal complaints that need to be pursued, we have told them that we are ready to help them pursue these cases.” The DOJ official explained Filipinos and foreigners face jail and fines if they are found liable in money laundering activities. With regard to foreigners involved in money laundering, he explained “if they are found guilty, they will have to serve sentence here first before they are deported.” Sugay added that under the law, the AMLC has the power “to also go after the assets and to make sure these are secured or these are seized.”