A Senate committee has recommended the immediate expulsion of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) from the country to protect the well-being of Filipinos and sustain economic growth.
In a committee report, the Senate Committee on Ways and Means urged the Executive department to cease the operations of POGOs. The report was signed by ten lawmakers, including committee chair Senator Sonny Angara.
Angara said the move was necessary to safeguard the country’s security and public order, as well as to promote sustainable economic development. He cited concerns over POGOs’ links to crime, money laundering, and social problems.
The committee report also called for the passage of legislation to separate the functions of regulation from operation in the charter of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). This would create a new entity to solely perform regulatory functions, while PAGCOR would continue to be a gambling operator.
In addition, the report directed the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to find alternative employment placements for Filipinos employed by POGOs, and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to cancel the working visas and deport foreign nationals employed in the POGO industry.
The DOLE was also directed to cancel the Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) issued to foreign nationals employed in the POGO industry.
The Senate committee’s recommendation to expel POGOs is the latest in a series of calls for the government to take action against the industry.
Critics have argued that POGOs have done more harm than good to the Philippines and that their expulsion is necessary to protect the country’s national interests.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 20, 2023
