The Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) stated on Tuesday that at least 80% of the 400 offshore gaming operators (POGO) centers in the Philippines have ceased operations in the country, and those who defy the comprehensive ban have adopted a "guerrilla" approach.
During the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon program, PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz mentioned that "small-scale" POGO operations in Northern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao are being monitored.
Cruz said that about 27,000 of the 40,000 POGO workers in the country have been deported by the immigration bureau.
Cruz noted that the sudden influx of foreigners into private resorts and the increase in food delivery numbers might indicate the presence of POGO operations.
"POGOs cannot operate because they require networks, internet connections, computers, personnel, and foreigners to guide or steer them," Cruz said.
"Currently, they are still using foreigners and those leading small-scale POGO operations, as well as those keyboard operators; the foreigners remain the hidden forces behind small-scale POGO operations, while the keyboard operators are Filipinos," he added.
Cruz previously stated that local government officials have been sued for negligence and failing to address the widespread POGO activities within their jurisdiction.
In July last year, Marcos announced a nationwide ban on all POGOs, both legal and illegal, and the ban will be completely lifted by December.
By December 31, 2024, the industry will be rife with human trafficking, prostitution, kidnapping, and murder.
In November, Marcos signed Executive Order No. 74. Last April, the Indian government announced an immediate ban on the country's offshore and internet gambling operations.
