(June 7, 2024) – Nearly 100 illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) establishments continue to operate in the Philippines, according to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC). Senators are pushing for a complete ban on POGOs, highlighting the alleged involvement of police, government agencies, and politicians in these illegal activities.
On Thursday, authorities discovered a Chinese man, weak and handcuffed to a bed frame, outside the Lucky South 99 POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga. His face was injured, and his body was covered in bruises. This rescue operation also freed nearly 200 other foreign nationals from the compound, allegedly proving that POGOs have become a haven for illegal activities.
During the Senate’s executive session with law enforcement agencies, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian stated that not just foreigners are involved in POGOs.
“After first part kinilabutan ako dahil nga na- confirm ng ating mga intelligence agency yung kinakatakutan natin na malalim na yung ugat nitong POGO. Ang kutob ko rito hindi lang government agencies pati judiciary meron na silang mga tao,” Gatchalian said.
He believes foreign entities involved in POGO are funding local syndicates and potentially influencing judicial decisions. Moreover, he called on Pres. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos to ban POGOs entirely.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) previously reported fewer than 50 licensed POGOs. However, PAOCC indicated that almost 100 out of over 400 POGOs, which had their licenses revoked, are still operating illegally. PAGCOR admitted they only monitor legal operations and lack access to private compounds where illegal activities occur.
In the past two years, authorities have raided 11 illegal POGO operations, uncovering scams, prostitution, illegal clinics, and torture chambers.
PAOCC spokesperson Winston John Casio noted the increase of POGOs began during the previous administration and said former president Rodrigo Duterte had been lenient towards online gaming hubs.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a separate investigation into the raided compound in Porac, and the Porac Police chief has been relieved from duty while the investigation is ongoing.
(With reports from Gerard dela Pena, News5)
(PB)
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