By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
In a hearing on Tuesday, CIBAC Party-List Rep. Bro. Eddie Villanueva hails the consolidation and approval of House Bills 10725, 10636, and 10987, seeking to permanently prohibit the operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs) in the country by the House Committee on Games and Amusements.
Rep. Bro. Eddie, principal author of the consolidated bill, said that the approved measure is a decisive move to protect the nation from the negative impact of POGOs, which he believes have caused various crimes and compromised the nation’s moral and social integrity.
“The operation of POGOs in the Philippines has proven detrimental to our society, with an alarming association to serious crimes such as kidnapping, prostitution, human trafficking, drugs, financial fraud, tax evasion, money laundering, corruption, and even killings. These activities are neither [the will] of God nor in line with the values we uphold as a people,” said Rep. Bro. Eddie.
He said that the shutdown order from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is not sufficient for a long-term solution if we are to ban POGOs once and for all.
“A legislative ban will ensure that POGOs cannot simply rebrand or return once the current administration ends. This is a stand that must extend beyond this presidency; it’s a defense for generations to come,” he emphasized.
In addition, the POGO ban bill also mandates the provision of a workers transition program to address the layoffs of Filipino workers who will be affected by the closure of POGOs.
The CIBAC solon hopes that Congress will pass the measure prior to its break in December. (with report from Mela Lesmoras/PTV News)
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