Marcos Directs Law Enforcement to Heighten Action Against Illegal Gamers as Deadline Approaches
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Manila, Dec 12 (NationPress) Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos issued a directive on Thursday for police and law enforcement agencies to enhance their efforts in dismantling illegal gaming operations and cyber cam hubs that persist in their activities despite the impending ban set to commence by the end of December, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
The directive followed remarks from Marcos late Wednesday, indicating that all permits and licenses for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) have been revoked. He cautioned that any entities attempting to operate illegally will face the full measure of legal consequences.
In recent months, Philippine authorities have conducted raids on suspected POGO hubs located near the capital, following Marcos's ban order issued in July.
Nonetheless, many gamers have regrouped into smaller factions, establishing secret hubs in various locations, including Metro Manila and central Philippines, to continue their internet-based criminal activities, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
According to the PCO, Marcos has instructed the Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission and the Philippine National Police to intensify operations against POGOs that remain active despite the prohibition.
Additionally, Marcos urged local provincial and municipal leaders to remain vigilant and amplify their efforts against the remnants of POGO operations.
As of November 29, the PCO reported that the government has canceled 53,700 offshore gaming employment licenses. Furthermore, 18 internet gaming licensees (IGLs) have also had their licenses revoked, while 27 IGLs are in the process of ceasing operations.
Back in July, Marcos mandated the prohibition of extensive online gaming operations within the Philippines, citing that these activities are linked to various crimes, including financial fraud, human trafficking, torture, kidnapping, and murder.
Earlier this month, the Philippines' Bureau of Immigration reminded foreign workers associated with POGO to adhere to the government-mandated deadline to exit the country by the year's end.
