Finance Secretary Ralph Recto hinted at the possibility of recommending the ban of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
On the sidelines of the recent EJAP-SMC Economic Forum in Intramuros, Recto expressed his strong opposition to the POGO industry due to its legal and ethical implications.
“Frankly, I’m not a fan of gambling, and two, I’m not a fan of POGOs, really,” Recto told reporters.
“But if they were not doing any hanky-panky and they’re paying taxes, fine with me. But I think there are many issues already surrounding the POGO industry ‘di ba?,” Recto added.
Recto’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among government officials who are increasingly scrutinizing the operations of POGO firms. The industry has been under the spotlight due to various allegations, including illegal activities and concerns over its contribution to the national economy.
A POGO company in Bamban, Tarlac is under investigation by authorities for suspected illegal activities. The firm is connected to suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo, whose Filipino identity is under scrutiny, with suspicions that she may be a Chinese national.
Additionally, another POGO company in Porac, Pampanga is facing an investigation for illegal activities, with lawmakers alleging that it is run by Chinese syndicates.
Recto emphasized that while the industry’s adherence to legal and tax obligations is a consideration, it is not the only factor in his evaluation.
“Given that, like I said, I’m willing to recommend to the President na ‘wag nang ituloy ‘yung POGO. Kung wala namang kasalanang ginagawa, I suppose puwede pa, but I think in general we don’t have to pin our hopes on POGO,” Recto said.
“In my case, with regard to the Department of Finance, I’m not in favor of POGO,” he added.
Former Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, who preceded Recto, had persistently called for a ban on POGOs, citing that other countries such as China and Cambodia have already prohibited the industry.
In October 2022, Finance Undersecretary Bayani Agabin remarked that the potential economic losses from the exit of POGOs could be compensated by investing in other high-value industries. (TCSP)
