Days before his 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his administration's focus on eradicating criminal activities, particularly those linked to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs.
Despite calls for a total ban on POGOs, Marcos has made limited statements on the matter. During his 2022 presidential campaign, he did not address the POGO industry. His first public stance against POGOs came in January 2023, citing potential social costs outweighing economic benefits.
High Stakes Decision
Marcos' impending decision on POGOs carries significant financial implications. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto recommended halting POGO operations due to recent controversies, while NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan supported the ban, despite potential revenue losses of P20 billion. In contrast, Finance Undersecretary Bayani Agabin suggested other industries could offset these losses.
A POGO ban would notably impact the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR), which reported significant income growth. Real estate firm Leechiu Property Consultants warned that banning POGOs could result in over P100 billion in losses, and the Association of Service Providers and POGOs (ASAP) estimated 23,000 job losses.
Crime and Corruption Concerns
PAGCOR's efforts to eliminate illegal operators have reduced licensees from 298 to 43. However, the Chinese Embassy and various studies have highlighted the POGOs' association with crime and corruption. The recent raid of a large POGO firm in Bamban, Tarlac, where over 800 individuals were rescued from alleged illegal activities, intensified scrutiny.
Senators questioned suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo for her alleged links to the POGO hub. The National Bureau of Investigation found her fingerprints matched those of a Chinese national, complicating her defense.
Urgent Need for Action
A Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) report recommended immediate government action on POGOs to avoid deeper economic entanglement. The study underscored the need for enhanced law enforcement, immigration control, and technological investments to regulate the online gaming industry.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian's comments on possible judicial corruption following the Porac POGO hub raid further emphasized the industry's deep-rooted issues.
Marcos' Stance on Corruption
While Marcos has been reserved about POGOs, he has vocally opposed government corruption. He urged government executives to resist corruption and incompetence, highlighting digitalization and integrity as solutions. Recent polls reflect public concern, with a 39% disapproval rating for the administration's anti-corruption efforts.
As the SONA approaches, the nation awaits Marcos' definitive stance on POGOs, which will signal his administration's broader commitment to addressing corruption and criminality.
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