In a significant crackdown on Philippine Overseas Gaming Operations (POGOs), the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has announced that local government officials are now facing legal action for their failure to curb these activities within their areas. PAOCC Executive Director Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz highlighted that these officials cannot feign ignorance, as POGO operations are often conspicuous within local communities, particularly at the barangay level. Cruz referenced President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s stance that such operations could not thrive without the knowledge of local governments. He stressed that these businesses do not appear suddenly but grow over time, suggesting a level of local complicity or negligence. While Cruz did not specify the number of officials charged, he warned that owners of properties hosting these illegal operations could also face legal consequences. President Marcos has directed a multi-agency approach to eradicate POGOs, following his announcement in last year’s State of the Nation Address of a complete ban on all POGO activities by the end of 2024. This move comes in response to the severe crimes associated with the industry, including human trafficking, prostitution, abduction, and murder.
Local Officials Face Charges for Neglecting POGO Operations
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