Senate probe sought over possible links of POGO to human trafficking

ABS-CBN News

MANILA (UPDATE) — Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian has filed a resolution seeking a Senate investigation into the possible involvement of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) in human trafficking activities in the country.In a statement Wednesday, Gatchalian said a probe is necessary following the recent rescue of around 1,000 foreigners at Clark Sun Valley Hub located in Clark Freeport Zone. The compound where the individuals were rescued is suspected to be a POGO hub.“These syndicates could be fronting as POGO operators but are actually engaged in criminal activities such as human trafficking and scamming,” Gatchalian explained.<ul class="op-related-articles">	<li><a href="https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/04/11/23/dela-rosa-recommends-pogo-zone-instead-of-phaseout">Dela Rosa recommends creation of &#x27;POGO zone&#x27; instead of total phaseout</a></li>	<li><a href="https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/03/28/23/banning-pogos-non-negotiable-gatchalian">Recommendation to ban POGOs &#x27;non-negotiable&#x27;: Gatchalian</a></li></ul>According to Gatchalian, the &quot;continued existence&quot; of POGOs and their service operators that are involved in criminalities smear the country’s reputation in the international community.“There is a need to determine the lapses and the loopholes in government processes that led to the facilitation of human trafficking on Philippine soil that undermines the human dignity of the trafficked persons and also violates their rights against involuntary servitude,” Gatchalian said. The Senate Ways and Means Committee chairman earlier recommended a ban on POGOs in the country.In a statement, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor), which regulates POGO, warned offshore gaming licensees and accredited service providers &quot;to abide by the Philippine laws.&quot;&quot;We will continuously subject our offshore gaming licensees and service providers to stricter monitoring,&quot; Pagcor chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco said. &quot;Only through regulated and responsible gaming can we minimize, if not totally eradicate all crimes that are being linked to gaming activities,” he added.

A resolution seeking a Senate investigation into the possible involvement of POGOs in human trafficking activities.

Senate probe sought over possible links of POGO to human trafficking | ABS-CBN

Entertainment

News

Metro.Style

Sports

More

News

Senate probe sought over possible links of POGO to human trafficking

Senate probe sought over possible links of POGO to human trafficking

ABS-CBN News

Published May 18, 2023 04:09 PM PHT

|

Updated May 18, 2023 07:13 PM PHT

Read More:

Senate

senator

Sherwin Gatchalian

POGO

Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators

human trafficking

ABS-CBN is the leading media and entertainment company in the Philippines, offering quality content across TV, radio, digital, and film. Committed to public service and promoting Filipino values, ABS-CBN continues to inspire and connect audiences worldwide.

Corporate

Investors

Governance

International Distribution

Corporate

Governance

Investors

International Distribution

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

Advertise with Us

© 2024 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Advertise with Us

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

© 2024 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.