This round of crackdown on gambling (POGO) in the Philippines is unprecedented, with many gambling companies being shut down and employees deported, which has somewhat alleviated the crime and chaos in Philippine society. However, due to the vested interests involved, not every place is pushing forward effectively, as local autonomy leaves some room for gambling, making it almost impossible to completely resolve the issue.
Looking at the current state of the gambling industry, there are four scenarios: First, from Central Luzon to Clark, the eradication has been thorough. Further north to Bataan, there has been no effective regulation, especially in the Bataan Economic Development Zone, which has become another hub for gambling, with gambling buildings still under construction and personnel still arriving. Second, the Southern Luzon area is actually a major disaster area for gambling. Although there are some actions in Inland Lake and Batangas, the enforcement is perfunctory and selective. Southern Luzon is the birthplace of gambling, with practitioners having strong backgrounds, and no one really wants or dares to take action, so gambling in Southern Luzon is still flourishing. Third, there is a trend of gambling moving offshore, to other islands including Cebu, Iloilo, Davao, and even Siquijor Island. Fourth, gambling is going underground, breaking up into pieces and dispersing into various communities, especially high-end residential areas, making it difficult to clean up. Fifth, gambling is disguising itself, blending into online games, a case of bait and switch. Among these, the economic development zones should be the focus of attention; with real efforts, each case can be accurately addressed.
As long as gambling is not completely banned, there is always the possibility of its resurgence, especially with local power protection, huge financial temptations, and the boldness of some to take risks, coupled with the discontinuity of government enforcement and fragmented regional management, no one can guarantee it won’t return.
Speaking of the government, I am reminded of the recent concerns of the Chinese community, which are actually unnecessary worries. The Philippines will not ostracize the Chinese community because the people here are not united in thought, lacking a unified will and action. Moreover, the Chinese have become an inseparable part of Philippine society, with a large part of employment dependent on the Chinese. It is unlikely that there will be a collective opposition against their benefactors, and in the Philippines, even serious incidents pass with time. What the Chinese need to do is to continue to be kind to others, do well themselves, as conjecture and suspicion are all harm and no benefit.
As for gambling, it is currently just lying dormant, ready to flare up once conditions are favorable. Therefore, the high-pressure approach should not be localized or phased, but maintained in the long term.
May there be no more (illegal) gambling or scams, may people live in peace and society in harmony, and may there be no thieves in the world.
