By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora | Philippine News Agency
The Chinese Embassy in Manila on Thursday welcomed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s declaration to ban all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), which have been linked to various illegal activities such as scams and human trafficking.
“We have noted President Marcos’ announcement of banning all POGOs and welcome this development. We believe this decision echoes the call of the Philippine people and serves the common interests of people of both countries,” the Embassy said in a statement.
The Embassy has repeatedly stated that Chinese law prohibits all forms of gambling and that it strictly cracks down on Chinese nationals engaged in overseas gambling businesses, including POGOs.
“POGO breeds serious crimes and gravely undermines the interests of both Philippine and Chinese peoples,” it said.
“In line with this commitment, China is ready to continue its strong law enforcement cooperation with the Philippines and better protect the safety and well-being of the two peoples,” it added.
In his third State of the Nation Address on Monday, the President ordered the banning of POGOs, as it already “ventured into illicit areas furthest from gaming, such as financial scamming, money laundering, prostitution, human trafficking, kidnapping, brutal torture, even murder.”
The Chief Executive ordered the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation to cease operations of POGOs by the end of the year, and the Department of Labor and Employment to help Filipino POGO employees who will consequently lose their jobs.
