Hontiveros Stays Firm on POGO Probe Despite Marcos’ Ban; China Supports

Senator Risa Hontiveros remains committed to her investigation into the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) despite President Marcos’ recent order for a complete ban on these operations.

The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines has endorsed the President’s decision, expressing approval of the ban.

Hontiveros confirmed that the Senate hearings will proceed on Monday, even in the absence of Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, who is pivotal to the ongoing POGO scandal.

“It’s not over yet,” asserted Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality. She emphasized that the inquiry aims to hold accountable those involved in illegal POGO activities such as money laundering, scams, human trafficking, and kidnapping.

Regarding Mayor Guo’s absence from the hearings, Hontiveros revealed that her committee is examining not only Guo but the entire POGO industry. Despite an arrest order from Senate President Francis Escudero, joint operatives from the Senate sergeant-at-arms and the Philippine National Police have been unable to locate Guo or her family.

Those who failed to appear have been charged with contempt. Guo, along with her parents and three siblings, are under investigation for their involvement in POGO operations in Bamban and Porac, Tarlac.

Nancy Gamo, Guo’s accountant, remains in Senate custody and will attend the resumed hearings.

Although POGO operations are banned, Hontiveros stressed that the Senate’s role includes ensuring the ban’s enforcement, holding perpetrators accountable, delivering justice to victims, and facilitating a fair transition for displaced Filipino POGO workers.

“We must also address our regulatory shortcomings,” Hontiveros added, noting that several government institutions have been compromised by POGO operations.

The Chinese Embassy affirmed that the ban aligns with the interests of both the Philippine and Chinese peoples, highlighting that Chinese law prohibits all forms of gambling, including POGOs, due to their association with serious crimes and significant harm.

“The Chinese government is committed to addressing Chinese citizens involved in overseas gambling businesses, including POGOs,” the embassy stated, emphasizing its readiness to continue strong law enforcement collaboration with the Philippines to ensure the safety and well-being of both nations.

Source: Manila Standard