In a decisive move against Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO), Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla has instructed local chief executives (LCEs) to ramp up their inspection efforts. This directive follows the arrest of approximately 400 foreign nationals engaged in POGO-like activities during a raid in Parañaque City on January 8, 2025. Remulla emphasized the importance of thorough building inspections, warning LCEs of accountability should they fail to report any findings to the authorities. The Department of the Interior and Local Government is set to demand an explanation from Parañaque City’s local government regarding the undetected operation. Remulla had previously mandated all local government units (LGUs) to submit a ‘no POGO certificate’ by the end of January 2025, and in a January 2 memorandum, he ordered regular inspections of business establishments to prevent covert operations. Additionally, LGUs are required to work closely with the Philippine National Police to uncover hidden POGO activities. Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission Executive Director Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz has highlighted that legal actions have been initiated against LCEs for negligence in tackling widespread POGO operations, stressing that local officials cannot feign ignorance of such activities within their communities.
Interior Secretary Urges Local Leaders to Intensify Crackdown on POGO Operations
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