The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has authorized local governments and police to conduct thorough inspections of commercial and residential properties within their areas to ensure adherence to the nationwide prohibition of Philippine Overseas Gaming Operations (POGOs). DILG Secretary Juanito Victor ‘Jonvic’ Remulla announced this directive following a meeting with Justice officials, emphasizing that local government units (LGUs) must submit ‘No POGO’ certificates by the end of January.
Remulla detailed that LGUs are tasked with verifying compliance through checks on occupancy, electrical, and fire safety permits, granting them full authority to enter any building. Additionally, these inspections may extend to verifying the accuracy of real property tax payments by property owners.
He pointed out that POGOs require significant internet bandwidth, making remote areas unsuitable for their operations. Remulla also made it clear that special economic zones, including those managed by CEZA and PEZA, are not exempt from the ban as per President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Executive Order No. 74.
The DILG’s campaign against POGOs is described as an ongoing and relentless effort, with Remulla vowing to maintain vigilance indefinitely. He warned that local officials found negligent in this campaign would face a ‘zero tolerance’ policy from the DILG.
In related developments, Remulla mentioned that the Bureau of Immigration is set to launch a manhunt for the 11,000 unaccounted foreign POGO workers, while the police will target those involved in illegal activities.