Romualdez open to POGOs if compliant, bans option but not only choice

House Speaker Martin Romualdez expressed openness to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) operating in the country as long as they comply with laws.

Romualdez stated that those who violate the law will face legal consequences and urged compliance to avoid problems, emphasizing a procedural approach including hearings where all stakeholders' positions are heard before deciding on any actions.

He noted that banning POGOs is an option but not necessarily the only choice, as ongoing concerns about compliance and security within the gaming industry persist following recent raids in Tarlac and Pampanga provinces.

During these raids, authorities uncovered hubs being used for scamming and human trafficking, with one raid in Angeles City resulting in over 190 individuals being apprehended.

A bill banning POGOs amid its lingering links to criminal activities was approved at the Committee level in the House of Representatives last February but has yet to be sponsored before the plenary.

Defense chief Gilbert Teodoro Jr. also said that POGOs linked to crime syndicates are a national security concern.