Cebu City is gearing up to confirm that no Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) are active within its boundaries, as stated by Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia on Tuesday. The city is set to adhere to the mandate from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla, requiring local government units to submit a ‘No POGO’ certification by the end of January. This follows Executive Order 74, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on November 5 of the previous year, which imposes an immediate ban on POGOs, internet gaming, and other offshore gaming activities nationwide. Mayor Garcia emphasized the city’s commitment to following the president’s directive, stating that all local government units must comply with the ban. In preparation, Garcia has engaged with the Cebu City Police Office, directing Colonel Antonieto Cañete to undertake a comprehensive intelligence investigation to verify the absence of POGO operations. Additionally, the mayor’s office is working with the Business Permit and Licensing Office to monitor and identify any establishments resembling POGOs, particularly those disguised as call centers. Garcia plans to lead a collaborative effort with law enforcement and the Cebu City Police Office to inspect all relevant establishments, ensuring no POGO hubs are operating in Cebu City.
