Interior Minister Jonvic Remulla stated that local government departments should be extra cautious when issuing business licenses to resorts and restaurants, as these could be fronts for illegal offshore gambling operators during government crackdowns.
"Their biggest disguise now is that they are applying for resorts and restaurants, although the mayor has the authority to visit these places to ensure that what is happening is exactly what they want," Remulla said during a confirmation hearing at the appointment committee.
"Therefore, when issuing business licenses and occupancy permits, the mayor must inspect the premises to ensure that the activities conform to expectations, which largely depends on the mayor," Remulla added.
He made these comments in response to observations by Senate Minority Deputy Leader Risa Hontiveros. Hontiveros noted that since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the ban on POGOs in his State of the Nation Address in July, POGOs and scam centers have moved from large centralized offices to smaller locations.
Remulla cited an August case where illegal online gambling operations were discovered at a resort in Lapu-Lapu, Cebu.
"Restaurants, hotels, and bars are just facades, then it's guerrilla operations, if I may say so, it moved from that one in Porac, then hid in Lapu-Lapu," Remulla said.
He mentioned that the Interior Department will submit a report to the president, which will include any potential liabilities of local government officials.
"Local governments must be meticulous in issuing business licenses, part of which involves inspecting the premises," Remulla said in a casual interview.
He added that mayors have the authority to inspect and shut down non-compliant businesses. Although local chief executives are already aware that this is one of their responsibilities, he indicated that he might issue a memorandum, "ordering them to inspect all businesses."
Regarding the over 100 licensed POGOs, Remulla stated that authorities will inspect them to ensure they shut down by December 31, as ordered by the president.
