(PNA photo by Avito Dalan)
MANILA – Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday expressed alarm over the Philippines becoming the world’s human trafficking hub, and called for measures against rising criminal activities related to the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) industry.
In a statement, he also urged the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) to implement “formal and actionable strategies” that are “duly approved by the board, and not just plans to appease legislators.”
“With the increasing number of these crimes, we are now becoming the human trafficking hub of the world. It’s evident that POGO is not bringing any benefit but instead, the industry is bringing shame to the country,” he said.
In a recent hearing about the human trafficking and cyber fraud operation inside Clark Freeport Zone, which was the subject of a proposed resolution filed by Gatchalian, the lawmaker downplayed PAGCOR officials’ explanation that the agency is conducting inspection and coordination.
Gatchalian has repeatedly called for the immediate closure of POGOs because the industry is now being used by organized criminal groups. (PNA)
