Senator Sherwin Gatchalian recently called for continued efforts to strengthen the crackdown on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO), ensuring the complete eradication of their residual criminal gangs and illegal activities.
Gatchalian pointed out that although POGO had ceased operations completely on December 31 last year, some former POGO businesses disguised as Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies, resorts, and restaurants are secretly engaging in illegal activities.
He warned that it is necessary to remain highly vigilant to prevent these enterprises from continuing to harm society under new guises.
He revealed that the Bureau of Immigration is collaborating with relevant agencies to track about 11,000 former POGO workers. Some of these individuals may be involved in crimes such as kidnapping, and if not deported promptly, illegal immigrants might further engage in unlawful activities.
Gatchalian called for intensified law enforcement actions to accelerate the elimination of potential threats.
Furthermore, he expressed support for the actions taken by the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) to annul Philippine birth certificates obtained through fraudulent means and urged increased efforts to scrutinize foreigners impersonating Filipinos to prevent them from engaging in illegal activities in the country.
Gatchalian emphasized that protecting national security and social order requires the collective effort of the entire society.
