Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has vowed to intensify efforts against illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) activities, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for a total ban on the industry.
The ban, which took effect on January 1st, 2025, aims to curb the surge in POGO-related crimes, including illegal detention, financial fraud, human trafficking and money laundering.
Since January 2024, the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) recorded 40 kidnapping cases, with 10 involving Chinese nationals who were reportedly abducted by their compatriots. These cases underscore the continued presence of criminal syndicates linked to POGO operations despite the official shutdown.
“These incidents highlight the continuing challenges posed by criminal syndicates operating in the aftermath of the POGO shutdown,” Marbil stated, according to The Philippine News Agency.
The PNP is also investigating the disappearance of a Chinese national last seen on February 20th in Taguig City. Marbil assured the public of a “thorough investigation” and urged reliance on official reports, emphasizing the PNP’s commitment to “upholding the rule of law and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.”
Ongoing raids and law enforcement actions
On February 20th, authorities raided a POGO facility in Parañaque City, leading to the arrest of 453 individuals, including 307 Filipinos and 137 Chinese nationals. The raid is part of a broader effort to dismantle underground POGO networks.
In Metro Manila, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR) has formed a special tracker team to target remaining illegal POGO operations.
Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators, or POGOs, were first legalized in 2016 to boost government revenues. The industry attracted many Chinese workers, given its focus on online gambling targeting mainland China, where gambling is prohibited.
However, the sector became mired in controversy due to rising crime rates, including kidnappings, extortion, and human trafficking, predominantly involving Chinese nationals. In response, President Marcos Jr. ordered a total ban, citing national security concerns and growing public backlash.
The crackdown on POGO operations marks a significant shift in the Philippine government’s stance on offshore gaming, with heightened law enforcement measures from the PNP and other government bodies since the start of the year.
