Business groups in the Philippines expressed their support for a total ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO) due to links to illegal activities in the country. The groups include the Makati Business Club, Alyansa Agrikultura, Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines, Foundation for Economic Freedom, Institute of Corporate Directors, Justice Reform Initiative, Management Association of the Philippines, and the UP School of Economics Alumni Association.
According to NEDA data, POGO investments contributed minimally to the economy, at 0.2 percent of GDP last year. Additionally, there have been social costs associated with POGOs, including involvement in crimes such as human trafficking, kidnapping, and money laundering.
Government officials have recommended a total ban on POGOs, emphasizing the need to focus on creating high-quality jobs and not gambling jobs. The business groups also highlighted the importance of re-skilling Filipino workers affected by the ban and finding alternative uses for assets from affected industries.
Policy on POGOs
It was suggested that President Marcos should declare his policy towards POGOs in order to differentiate between law-abiding and illegal operators. House Representative Joey Salceda emphasized the importance of enforcing existing laws to address any violations.
Salceda opposed a total ban on POGOs, pointing out the significant tax revenues they generate for the government. Instead, he advocated for targeting and shutting down illegal operators while allowing compliant licensees to continue operating.
Lookout bulletin
Two names, Alice Guo and Guo Hua Ping, were placed in the Immigration Lookout Bulletin, following reports of Mayor Alice Guo possibly leaving the country. The Bureau of Immigration confirmed that Guo remains in the country despite speculations about her departure.
Sandoval, the BI spokesperson, suggested directing inquiries about Guo’s potential departure through the country’s borders to the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Navy.
Torture
Four foreign nationals rescued from POGO hubs in Pampanga and Tarlac, along with a Filipina rescued from a scamming facility in Myanmar, presented evidence of torture activities inside online gambling facilities. PAOCC emphasized the need to identify and prosecute those behind such operations.
Fake certificates
Congressman Adiong filed a resolution for an inquiry into the proliferation of fictitious birth certificates and passports issued to foreign nationals, posing a serious threat to national security. This initiative follows revelations of falsified documents issued to Chinese nationals in Davao del Sur.
Cover for illegal acts
Former Supreme Court justice Antonio Carpio criticized PAGCOR for issuing licenses to Chinese-run POGO firms, which he believes are being used as fronts for illegal activities. He called for the cancellation of these licenses to address the issue.
