Senator Gatchalian Proposes Bill to Ban POGOs Amidst Rising Crime Concerns

On the grounds that there has been a rise in illegal conduct linked to the industry, Philippine Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has presented legislation to make Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) criminals.

Gatchalian, the Senate Ways and Means Committee Chair, highlights the significance of tackling the growing instances of human trafficking and online frauds that target POGOs.

The May 21st submission of Senate Bill No. 2689 is a proposal to remove the taxation of offshore gaming as per Republic Act 11590, which was enacted in September 2021 under Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.

Following a string of high-profile raids that revealed the murky side of the POGO industry, Gatchalian made his move. One notable operation took place in Pasay City, Metro Manila, when a “torture chamber” and purported prostitution locations were discovered.

Citing not just the financial implications but also the moral duty to fight human trafficking and internet fraud associated with POGOs, the senator emphasized the public’s desire for industry prohibition.

Senator Francis Escudero, who is claiming concerns about money laundering, cyber fraud, and human trafficking, is thinking of outlawing all forms of gaming in the Philippines in response to rising concerns.

Original Story by: Asian Gaming Brief