SENATOR Win Gatchalian has taken a firm stance against offshore gaming operations (POGOs) in the Philippines, sponsoring Senate Bill No. 2868, also known as the Anti-POGO Act of 2024. The bill aims to completely prohibit and declare illegal all POGO operations and related activities within the country.
In his sponsorship speech on Monday, December 9, 2024, Gatchalian cited staggering economic losses attributed to POGOs, citing a Department of Finance report that pegged the annual cost at P99.52 billion in 2023.
Beyond the financial impact, Gatchalian emphasized the significant social costs associated with POGO operations, particularly the alarming rise in POGO-related crimes. He argued that a gradual phaseout of POGOs was insufficient and that an outright ban was necessary to restore integrity, dignity, and peace to the nation.
“Ban POGOs once and for all,” Gatchalian stressed, highlighting the urgency of addressing the issue.
The senator’s strong stance reflects growing concerns about the negative consequences of POGOs in the Philippines, prompting calls for a comprehensive and decisive solution.
metrosundaily
