Gordon questions AMLC over POGO undeclared cash influx

Senator Richard Gordon is questioning the Anti-Money Laundering Council's (AMLC) silence regarding issues surrounding Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

Gordon revealed that information suggests at least 60 Chinese nationals have entered the Philippines carrying millions of dollars in undeclared cash, which he suspects could be used for illicit activities.

He expressed concern that such undeclared cash could be used to fund private armies, enemies of the state, or manipulate the real estate market.

The Bureau of Customs has admitted that a total of US$447.07 million or P22.69 billion in cash was brought into the country by 47 individuals from September 2019 to February 2020.

This influx of unexplained cash may be facilitated by corrupt officials who allow undeclared money to enter the country under the guise of legitimate transactions.

Gordon indicated that the Senate blue ribbon committee's upcoming probe into POGO-related issues will address these concerns, including the AMLC's supposed failure to prevent foreigners from cleaning dirty money through the country's financial system.

The senator emphasized that if the funds were not for illegal purposes, they should have been transferred through banks for transparency.

He warned that gambling could be used as a cover for money laundering, where winnings are declared and then legitimized through bank deposits.