MANILA, (PIA) — Senator Win Gatchalian has urged for sustained efforts against Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) to ensure the effective elimination of any remnants of the industry.
Gatchalian’s call comes after the government’s deadline for the cessation of all POGO operations lapsed on December 31.
“More than ever, we need to sustain our efforts to clear out all criminal syndicates that are products of POGOs. We must stay the course to ensure a safer and more secure Philippines for all Filipinos,” Gatchalian said.
The senator has been a staunch advocate for terminating POGO operations in the country for over two years.
Despite the deadline having passed, Gatchalian warned that some POGOs have rebranded themselves as legitimate business entities, including Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies, resorts, and restaurants, to disguise their ongoing illegal activities.
“All law enforcement agencies, in close coordination with local government units, as well as the general public, must remain vigilant against the presence of POGO offshoots disguised as legitimate business entities,” he added.
The senator cautioned against complacency, highlighting that the transformation of POGOs into other business forms continues to pose risks to public safety and order. According to the Bureau of Immigration (BI), efforts are underway to locate approximately 11,000 former POGO workers who are facing deportation.
“These illegal aliens could potentially become involved in criminal activities, such as kidnapping, following reports of such incidents,” Gatchalian said.
“Because they have evaded deportation, we can safely assume that these illegal aliens are onto something unlawful, and vigilance from everyone is necessary to ensure these activities are curtailed and that these individuals are deported as soon as possible.”
Gatchalian also commended the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) for its initiative to cancel birth certificates that were fraudulently obtained.
“While we commend the OSG for their actions, we also urge them to expedite their efforts against fraudulent foreigners to further prevent their abusive practices in the country,” he concluded. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
(Contributed photos)
