MANILA – China expressed support to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to ban Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in the country.
In a statement on Thursday night, the Chinese embassy urged the Philippine government to outlaw POGOs in Manila, saying that Beijing does not tolerate any forms of gambling.
The embassy also reiterated that China is ready to help in cracking POGOs down for becoming dens of various illegal activities.
“We have noted President Marcos’ announcement of banning all POGOs and welcome this development,” the Chinese Embassy said. “We believe this decision echoes the call of the Philippine people and serves the common interests of people of both countries.”
“The Chinese government strictly cracks down on Chinese citizens engaging in overseas gambling businesses including POGO… In line with this commitment, China is ready to continue its strong law enforcement cooperation with the Philippines and better protect the safety and well-being of the two peoples,” it added.
During his third State of the Nation Address on Monday, President Marcos said he is banning all POGOs in the country by the end of the year.
According to the Chief Executive, POGO operations had ventured into illicit areas such as financial scamming, money laundering, prostitutions, human trafficking, kidnapping, torture, and murder.
Last year, the Chinese government helped the Philippines shut down five POGO hubs and repatriate nearly 1,000 Chinese citizens.
Recent raids at POGO hubs have sparked debates among government officials over the potential harm these enterprises pose to national security and the possibility of banning them./PN
