Kids of deported Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) workers are now seeking assistance from the government.
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) revealed that 15 young children, whose foreign fathers were deported Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) workers, are now seeking government assistance. These children, whose mothers are Filipino, range from infants to toddlers and are facing hardships such as food shortages and housing insecurity.
PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz expressed deep concern over the situation.
“Itong 15 bata na ‘to mga anak ito nung mga dating POGO workers na pina-deport natin. Every week, pumupunta sa amin ‘yan, humihingi ng pang-gatas, pang-pampers, minsan ‘yung iba pambayad pa ng apartment nila. (These 15 are children of former POGO workers who got deported. Every week, they come to us asking money for milk, diapers, and sometimes even to pay for their apartment rent.),” Cruz said, as reported by GMA News.
“Hindi naman nating pwedeng tanggihan ‘yan kasi nga ano sila, naging collateral damage o naging problema sila na binunga nitong illegal POGO operations dito sa atin. ((We can't turn them away because they have become collateral damage or a problem brought about by the illegal POGO operations in our country.)” he added.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent ban on POGOs aims to address various criminal activities linked to the industry, but it has inadvertently left these children vulnerable.
The PAOCC official said they are not letting the children stay inside their detention center, but they provide them the support they need. He said they are also now coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regarding the matter.
Marcos' Executive Order No. 74 has broadened the scope of the POGO ban to encompass illegal offshore gaming operations, licensing processes, and the closure of unauthorized operations. Any POGO or internet gaming operator lacking the necessary government permits is now categorized as an illegal gambling entity, subject to increased law enforcement scrutiny.
Foreign workers previously employed by POGOs were required to transition their 9G visas to tourist visas by October 15, 2023. They must depart the Philippines by the end of the year.
Approximately 200 POGO hubs continue to operate despite government efforts. PAOCC is currently holding around 700 individuals, with 250 scheduled for deportation next week. These individuals, who are no longer permitted to work, are detained at a former POGO hub in Pasay City.
Read related article: Hontiveros Highlights POGO Victims as Senate Ends Probe
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