PAOCC targets elimination of all illegal POGOs by year-end

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) aims to eliminate all illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) by the end of this year.

Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, PAOCC executive director, stated that despite President Marcos Jr.'s ban in January, there are still 11,000 ex-POGO workers conducting scamming activities across various parts of the Philippines.

Cruz noted that these operators now conduct business from apartments, condominiums, and hotels due to increased government scrutiny, with many foreign nationals operating 'hiding in plain sight' in places like Metro Manila, Cavite, and Laguna.

PAOCC has rescued victims of kidnapping and torture and is working closely with other agencies such as the NBI, PNP, BI, SEC, AMLC, and local government units to monitor and arrest these illegal operators.

The commission faces challenges in processing clearances and records for arrested foreigners before deportations can occur.