Hontiveros wants Duterte to condemn POGO crimes

Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros urged President Rodrigo Duterte to publicly condemn crimes linked to the increasing number of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

Senator Richard Gordon alleged that Chinese nationals smuggled approximately $188 million into the country between December and February, with at least 60 Chinese citizens involved.

Gordon described the POGO presence as a "POGO invasion" and likened it to Chinese aggression, citing violations of Philippine laws.

He also criticized the Duterte administration's "soft stance" on China as a reason for the rise in POGO-related crimes, speculating that government employees might be afraid to displease the President.

A previous Senate investigation, led by Hontiveros, uncovered that POGO hubs were being used as fronts for prostitution, exploiting both Filipino and Chinese women.

Hontiveros believes a statement from the Office of the President is the most effective way to address the issue and inform the public about the dangers of POGOs.