PH law enforcers urged to have ‘consolidated approach’ vs Pogos

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian during the weekly Kapihan sa Senado forum on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. Noy Morcoso/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Win Gatchalian on Wednesday urged Philippine law enforcement agencies to craft a “consolidated approach” to end crimes linked to Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos).

Gatchalian directed his remark to the Philippine National Police, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, the National Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Immigration, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor).

“The absence of unity and coordination among all concerned agencies could potentially weaken our campaign and enable Pogos to exploit gaps and continue their operations,” Gatchalian said.

“Our advocacy to eliminate all illegal activities emanating from Pogos would be more efficient and effective if we adopt and implement a unified approach,” he added.

Gatchalian also said the country should refrain from letting evil deeds proliferate because of a lack of coordination.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the Pogo ban during his third State of the Nation Address last July. He then ordered Pagcor to wind down and stop the operations of Pogos by the end of the year.

READ: Marcos: ‘All Pogos are banned!’