State-run Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) vowed to intensify its collaboration with other government and law enforcement agencies amid increasing number of crimes related to illegal offshore gaming operations.
Alejandro Tengco, Pagcor chairman and chief executive officer, said there will be greater inter-agency cooperation to safeguard the welfare and safety, not only of Filipinos but also of foreign nationals working in Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGO).
Last Sept. 14, Pagcor held an inter-agency meeting with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Justice (DOJ), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Tengco said President Marcos was aware of POGO-related kidnapping cases and other illegal activities in the country, thus the chief executive ordered them to tighten the operations against illegal operators
“The information we received is that these alarming incidents of kidnapping came from the ranks of illegal operators. While it will be a challenge to all participating agencies, the good thing is that we are receiving information as to where these illegal operations are located,” Tengco said.
The Pagcor chief added that the licensed POGO operators have also shown their commitment to help address the problem by “policing their own ranks.”
“First, they are now going to ask their people to contain themselves in an area for safety and security purposes. Second, they will come up with an updated list of their employees because some have already resigned,” Tengco said.
“Third, we will require them to submit a police clearance together with their application for an offshore gaming license employment (OGEL) ID. At least, those who apply, we know that they have clean record,” he added. furthered.
If the kidnapping of foreign workers the country is not abated, Tengco warned that the consequences may affect even the legitimate POGO operators.
“If these kidnapping incidents and other illegal activities persist, it is clear that not only will we cancel the licenses of POGO operators, but the entire industry may be affected by whatever decision will emanate from the national government,” Tengco said.
“So let us help each other solve these issues the soonest,” he added.
Meanwhile, PNP chief Rodolfo Azurin said the PNP is doing its best to ensure the safety and security of everyone – including foreign nationals who are working in the country.