FILE PHOTO: Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano says all forms of gambling, including that of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos), should be banned nationwide. According to him, gambling holds “unintended consequences” that come with its supposed advantages. (Photo from the Office of Senator Alan Peter Cayetano/SMU)
MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano said all forms of gambling, including that of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos), should be banned nationwide.
According to Cayetano, gambling holds “unintended consequences” that come with its supposed advantages.
“It’s because, now, it’s just like legal gaming forms – parating may unintended consequences ‘yan,” Cayetano said in an interview with reporters Thursday.
(It’s because, now, it’s just like legal gaming forms – it usually has unintended consequences.)
READ: Anti-Pogo clamor grows for President Marcos’ action
“Ano ba ‘yong tinatanim natin sa next generation? Wala pa akong country na nakikita [na tumatangkilik] sa mga online gaming na talagang umunlad,” he added.
(What are we instilling for the next generation? I have yet to see a country that promotes online gaming that progressed.)
Cayetano’s remark came amid congressional investigations of Pogos and various illegal activities linked to its operation.
READ: The compelling case against Pogos
Other members of the Senate and House of Representatives have also voiced their opposition to further allowing Pogos in the country.
In 2022, Cayetano filed Senate Bill No. 63, or the Anti-Online Gambling Act. As of writing, it is still pending before the Senate committees on ways and means, and public order and dangerous drugs.