The investigation by the Philippine Senate into the criminal issues associated with the offshore gaming industry (POGO) is nearing its conclusion. However, during a forum at the Senate office, Senator Hong Zhiwei Luos revealed new explosive information, indicating that intelligence suggests Chinese spies might be entering the Philippines through POGO channels, and stated that the details would be disclosed in the final hearing on November 26.
Hong Zhiwei Luos pointed out that this intelligence provides new clues for the ongoing Senate investigation into the offshore gaming industry, and directly addresses the deeper issues that may exist behind the industry.
"In the last hearing, we will focus on discussing the issue of Chinese spies using POGO to enter the country, as well as the latest developments of Guo Huaping and her criminal gang," she emphasized in the forum.
Additionally, the senator questioned Executive Order No. 74 issued by President Marcos. She believes that although the order declares the prohibition of the offshore gaming industry, there are still policy loopholes and enforcement weaknesses that need to be addressed and perfected through legislation.
Hong Zhiwei Luos also mentioned that the committee will sort out all pending issues and propose specific reform suggestions at the hearing on the 26th, in order to address the risks posed by the offshore gaming industry at economic, social, and national security levels.
Looking back at July this year, President Marcos announced a complete ban on the offshore gaming industry in his State of the Nation Address, and required the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to completely shut down related operations by the end of the year. However, as the investigation progresses, the criminal activities and potential threats behind the POGO issues are evidently more complex than anticipated.
Whether the ban on the offshore gaming industry can truly curb related crimes, and the authenticity of the so-called spy intelligence, still await the unveiling of further investigation results.
