Gilbert Cruz, the Deputy Minister of the Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), revealed that the government is expected to issue an Executive Order (EO) this week, providing a policy framework and action guidelines for law enforcement agencies to combat Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO).
Cruz pointed out that the Executive Order not only clarifies the division of responsibilities among various government agencies in the anti-POGO operations but also covers specific implementation details.
He stated, "This is a policy document that specifies the list of agencies involved in the anti-POGO efforts, their respective responsibilities, and the specific requirements for law enforcement actions."
In response to public concerns about the handling of the POGO ban, Cruz emphasized that the Executive Order will specify measures for dealing with POGO personnel who fail to leave the country after the deadline.
He said, "After the ban takes effect, if there are still POGO employees remaining in the Philippines, or if there are POGO centers operating covertly, appropriate law enforcement actions will be taken. This includes arresting those who stay behind and ordering local governments to inspect and shut down illegally operating POGO venues."
Following the President's issuance of the POGO ban, the government initially faced criticism due to the lack of a clear implementation plan. Some questioned whether the ban was merely verbal, referred to as "President Pony's verbal POGO ban," lacking practical effect. This upcoming Executive Order is widely seen as a response to such criticisms, aiming to strengthen the enforcement of the ban.
