Senators push POGO ban after PLA uniforms found at raided site

Senators are renewing their call to ban Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) after the discovery of People's Liberation Army (PLA) uniforms at a raided facility.

Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. stated that criminal syndicates posing as POGO hubs are national security concerns that weaken the country's financial standing and corrupt society.

Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero expressed support for stopping illegal POGO operations and suggested that perpetrators be arrested.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada urged the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to intensify its crackdown on unlicensed POGOs.

Estrada also called for the cancellation of visas and immediate deportation of foreign employees of unlicensed POGOs in coordination with the Bureau of Immigration.

Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Risa Hontiveros believe the presence of PLA uniforms is clear evidence of POGOs posing a national security threat, with Hontiveros intending to file a bill to repeal Republic Act No. 11590.

Estrada cited reports of around 250 unlicensed POGO operations that should prompt a crackdown.