The Philippines and China have renewed their commitment to tackling the issues associated with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). According to a press release, the was reached during a meeting between Philippine Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian at Malacañang Palace. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation and intelligence sharing to address the criminal activities linked to POGOs.  

In an interview with local media, Gilbert Cruz, chief of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), highlighted that both countries agreed to enhance their partnership. The focus is on dismantling criminal syndicates exploiting the POGO industry. Cruz said that Huang assured proactive support from China in this joint effort, which underscores the importance of collaborative operations and information exchange to effectively combat these crimes.   

Legal and regulatory frameworks  

Both nations reviewed the legal and regulatory frameworks governing POGOs in the Philippines. They aim to strengthen enforcement mechanisms against illegal activities, including human trafficking, kidnapping, and other crimes. The cooperation also involves the repatriation of Chinese nationals found guilty of POGO-related crimes, ensuring they face justice in their home country.  

Addressing social problems  

The PAOCC chief emphasised that POGO-related crimes have led to numerous social problems in the Philippines, such as increased rates of kidnapping, prostitution, and human trafficking. These crimes are attributed to organized crime syndicates exploiting the POGO industry. The collaboration seeks to dismantle these networks and hold perpetrators accountable, ensuring the safety and security of both Filipino and Chinese nationals.  

Crackdown on illegal activities  

Recent operations against illegal POGO hubs have resulted in the arrest and filing of charges against several Chinese nationals. For instance, two Chinese nationals were charged in connection with a raided POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga. They face multiple charges, including human trafficking and serious illegal detention. The crackdown also uncovered illegal drugs and torture instruments, highlighting the severity of the crimes associated with illegal POGO operations.  

Meanwhile, earlier this week, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) said that a former senior government official tried to obtain gaming licences for several illegal POGOs, which were recently raided. PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco mentioned that the details of these activities and the former official’s involvement would be revealed in an appropriate forum. 

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