Philippine senator Sherwin Gatchalian warns that offshore gaming operators are camouflaging illegal activities by morphing into BPOs, resorts, & restaurants.
The Philippine government's ban on Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) was meant to end their detrimental impact. However, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian warns that the fight is far from over. POGOs are not disappearing; they are transforming, and camouflaging their illegal activities by morphing into seemingly legitimate businesses like BPOs, resorts, and restaurants.
"More than ever, we need to sustain our efforts to clear out all criminal syndicates that are products of POGOs. We must stay the course to ensure a safer and more secure Philippines for all Filipinos," Gatchalian said in a statement issued late evening of January 7.
This transformation poses a serious challenge. What was once a readily identifiable industry is now blending into the legitimate business landscape. Gatchalian stresses the urgent need for heightened vigilance from law enforcement, local governments, and the public. These POGO offshoots present the same risks to public safety and order.
The strategy is clear: by adopting the guise of legitimate businesses, former POGOs aim to continue operating undetected. This allows them to maintain their networks and potentially continue criminal activities under a seemingly innocent facade. A BPO, resort, or restaurant provides convenient cover, making detection and prosecution much harder.
Adding to this concern is the presence of approximately 11,000 undocumented former POGO workers awaiting deportation. Gatchalian warns that these individuals, having evaded deportation, may resort to criminal activities like kidnapping, echoing previous incidents linked to POGOs. Their continued presence outside legal channels poses a significant security risk.
This situation demands a multi-pronged approach. Beyond enforcing the POGO ban, authorities must actively investigate businesses suspected of harboring these disguised operations. This requires close coordination between law enforcement, immigration, and local governments. Public vigilance is equally crucial; citizens must be aware of this potential and report any suspicious activity.
Gatchalian commended the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) for canceling fraudulently acquired birth certificates, a tactic used to create false identities. He urged the OSG to expedite these actions to prevent such deceptive practices.
The transformation of POGOs into legitimate-looking businesses marks a new phase in combating organized crime. It highlights that banning an industry is not enough. Continuous vigilance, proactive investigations, and strong inter-agency cooperation are essential to dismantle these disguised operations and protect public safety.
"While we commend the OSG for their actions, we also urge them to expedite their efforts against these deceptive foreigners to better prevent their abusive activities in the country," Gatchalian said in Filipino.
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