Lapid seeks Senate probe on Pampanga Pogo linked to human trafficking

Senator Lito Lapid is calling for a Senate investigation into a Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) in Pampanga, which was recently raided due to suspected human trafficking activities.

The Pogo hub in question, Lucky South 99 Outsourcing Inc., located at the border of Porac town and Angeles City, was raided on June 4 after reports surfaced that it was being utilized for human trafficking.

During the raid, authorities rescued over 190 Filipino and foreign workers.

Lapid emphasized the need to identify the true owners of the land, buildings, and the operating company to uncover who is genuinely behind the Pogo operation.

Several senators expressed concern over the country's security following the discovery of alleged uniforms of the Chinese military inside the Porac Pogo hub.

Senator Risa Hontiveros asked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to implement a total ban on POGOs, citing them as a breeding ground for crime and a national security threat.