Sen. Villar chairs hearing on POGO ban, highlights fraud and social issues

Sen. Mark Villar chaired a second public hearing on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to ban Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (Pogos) by December 31, 2024.

Villar highlighted recent PAOCC operations that uncovered fake documents issued to foreign Pogo workers by travel agencies, including marriage certificates and birth certificates with Filipino names.

The senator emphasized the possibility of an inside job within government agencies facilitating these fraudulent activities, noting connections between travel agencies and issuing authorities.

Villar stressed the negative social impact of Pogos, citing issues like human trafficking, scamming, and abuse that outweigh their economic benefits.

He called for immediate action to shut down Pogo operations and investigate those involved in illegal activities, including the deportation of foreign workers and sanctions for Filipino employees.

The senator also raised concerns about the persisting presence of POGOs despite the deadline and discussed new findings suggesting possible inside jobs within government agencies.

Further updates on implementation will be discussed at upcoming public hearings, focusing on enforcement measures against fraudulent document issuance.