Senator Win Gatchalian has called for an inquiry into the increasing presence of foreign nationals, potentially associated with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), within exclusive gated communities. In a press statement, Gatchalian the necessity of scrutinizing gatherings of foreign nationals to safeguard against rising criminality.
Focus on specific concerns in Multinational Village
Highlighting ongoing apprehensions voiced by residents of Multinational Village in Paranaque City, underscored the urgency of investigating the surge in foreign residents within the subdivision. Reports indicate the emergence of enclaves catering exclusively to these foreign nationals, raising alarms about potential clandestine activities and the need for heightened vigilance.
"This is something worthy of attention. We need to ensure that any significant gathering of foreign nationals is not for the purpose of engaging in illegal activities given the trend of rising criminality attributed to these individuals involved in the industry," Gatchalian said.
Alarm over potential criminal elements
Gatchalian voiced apprehension over the possibility of fugitives from abroad finding refuge within these gated communities, capitalizing on their knowledge of local dynamics and connections to evade scrutiny. Emphasizing the audacity of these individuals, Gatchalian underscores the need for robust investigations and measures to counteract potential criminal syndicates exploiting loopholes and securing protection from influential figures.
Concerns amplified by previous incidents
Referencing the November 2023 raid in Ayala Alabang Village, where 11 Chinese nationals were apprehended for illegal online gambling, Gatchalian underscored the gravity of the situation. The seizure of firearms and gambling paraphernalia during the raid underscores the potential threats posed by such clandestine operations, further underscoring the imperative of proactive measures to curb illicit activities.
Advocating for POGO termination
The senator also reiterated his stance on the termination of POGO operations in the Philippines, citing the disproportionate social costs vis-à-vis economic gains. Emphasizing the detrimental impact on societal well-being, Gatchalian underscored the imperative of prioritizing measures to safeguard national security and integrity over short-term economic benefits.
PAGCOR licence
POGOs are online gambling firms based in the Philippines that primarily serve customers located outside of the country. In essence, they operate in the international market. To ensure legal compliance, POGOs are to obtain licence from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), the regulatory body overseeing gambling activities in the Philippines. This licensing process is essential for POGOs to conduct their operations within the bounds of the law and maintain the integrity of the industry.
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