In Philippines, Chinese gambler-focused Pogos face fresh ban threat
The Philippines has been cracking down on Chinese-run online gambling operations, known as Pogos (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators), amid concerns over their links to crimes, including money laundering and human trafficking. Now, the industry is facing a fresh threat of a complete ban.
The Pogos have been a major source of revenue for the Philippines, generating billions of dollars in taxes and employing tens of thousands of Chinese workers. However, their presence has also been controversial, with reports of illegal activities and social problems associated with the influx of Chinese nationals.
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered a review of the Pogo sector, citing concerns about the impact of the operations on local communities and the country’s security. This comes after a series of high-profile cases, including the kidnapping and murder of a Chinese national linked to the online gambling industry.
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has said that the government is considering banning Pogos altogether, a move that could have significant economic consequences. The sector is estimated to contribute around 0.1% of the Philippines’ GDP, and employs a large number of Chinese workers who could face deportation if the ban is implemented.
Some lawmakers and interest groups have welcomed the potential ban, arguing that the Pogos bring more harm than good to the Philippines. They point to reports of illegal gambling, prostitution, and other criminal activities associated with the industry, and call for stricter regulation or an outright ban on online gambling.
On the other hand, supporters of the Pogos argue that the industry provides much-needed employment and tax revenue for the Philippines. They also point to the benefits of Chinese investment in the country, including infrastructure projects and real estate development.
The debate over the future of the Pogos is likely to continue in the coming months, with both sides presenting their arguments to the government and the public. The decision on whether to ban the online gambling operations will have far-reaching implications for the Philippines’ economy and its relationship with China. It remains to be seen how the Duterte administration will navigate this delicate issue in the face of mounting pressure from both sides.
