📋 Tender Overview
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has commended the issuance of Executive Order (EO) 74 by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which formalizes a total ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in the country.
This directive, issued on November 5, mandates the closure of all POGO-related activities by December 31, 2024, following concerns over rising criminal activity and threats to national security linked to the industry.
Go, known for his strong advocacy for public order and citizen welfare, has consistently supported a strict approach to the POGO issue, citing the negative impact on the safety and well-being of Filipinos.
"And I myself have been against POGO. When peace and order are affected, for the record, I really don't want POGO. Especially when they are sowing terror? When compromised It's peace and order, I don't want it myself, I'm against POGO. I've been saying that for a long time," Go manifested earlier.
Go recently signed the committee report of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means banning and declaring illegal offshore gaming operations in the Philippines.
"It is time to stop POGO in the country. We have been saying for a long time that the welfare and security of every Filipino is more important. We will not let the peace in our country be destroyed by illegal activities," Go also said in a recent statement.
In previous remarks, Go urged the administration to ensure that the ban on POGOs would be thorough and uncompromising, warning against selective enforcement that could allow some operators to continue.
"When a total ban is said, no one should be left behind. Let's not be complacent, especially if the safety and well-being of the people are at stake," Go stressed, adding that peace and order must remain a top priority for the government.
As Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Order, Go has highlighted the pervasive issues associated with POGOs, such as human trafficking, financial fraud, and organized crime, which have contributed to a deterioration in public safety.
"Many Filipinos become victims of criminality and abuse because of the illegal activities associated with them," Go stated. "We will not allow more people to suffer."
The Department of Finance's study, as cited in EO 74, underscores the disproportionate risks that POGOs present, including impacts on crime rates and social stability. The Anti-Money Laundering Council also flagged these operators for being vulnerable to financial crime, tarnishing the nation's reputation and deterring investment and tourism.
Go emphasized that these risks outweigh any perceived economic benefit that POGOs might bring, stressing that no amount of revenue could justify compromising the security and peace that citizens deserve.
Go reiterated his call for a holistic and united approach from all sectors of government in ensuring that the ban on POGOs is fully implemented. He urged local authorities, the Philippine National Police and other enforcement agencies to maintain vigilance and act decisively against any attempt to undermine the order.
He also encouraged the administration to continue investing in other sectors to generate employment and economic growth while also taking care of those whose livelihoods may be adversely affected due to the ban.
"In the end, the peace and security of our people is still more important than any other visible benefits of POGO," he said. "For me, the life and welfare of every Filipino is the most important."
