Philippine Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian urges the country’s Bureau of Immigration (BI) to intensify efforts in preventing foreigners involved in illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) from entering the country and establishing more illicit operations.
According to Business World, Gatchalian emphasizes the need for the BI to actively act as effective gatekeepers against criminal elements aiming to exploit the country for illegal activities. He highlights the ease with which these individuals move between different POGO companies, despite immigration regulations.
POGO-related crimes, including human trafficking, victimized over 4,000 people in the first half of last year, as reported by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in October.
Gatchalian proposes a resolution to permanently ban such operations, noting their continued licensing by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) despite their criminal associations.
Despite the problems, PAGCOR and various politicians continue to support offshore gaming, noting the revenue brought into the country and the jobs created by the sector.
POGO related crimes have been in the forefront on the news lately and the government needs to help curb the problems caused by this to instill transparency in governance and boost confidence for investors hoping to do the online gaming business legitimately in the Philippines.