Chinese-Filipino group warns of rise in POGO-related crimes

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 31) — A group supporting victims of kidnap-for-ransom warned that the Philippines may record more Philippine Overseas Gaming Operations (POGO)-related crimes amid local authorities' lack of action against syndicates.

Ka Kuen Chua, president of the Movement for Restoration of Peace and Order, reiterated the group's stance against the continuous operations of POGO firms despite issues hounding the sector, including kidnapping cases.

"POGO-related crimes may increase significantly, or even exponentially, because the criminal syndicates behind the said crimes will become emboldened by the lack of consequences of their criminal activities," Chua said during a Senate hearing on Tuesday.

"The fact that some POGOs accused of being involved in abductions are still operating serves only as a message to the criminal involved that they can continue their criminal activities with impunity and without immediate consequences from the government," he said.

Some Philippine National Police (PNP) officials were present during the hearing, where the agency disclosed that POGO-related incidents from 2017 to 2022 have already reached 102.

Criminal activities linked to POGOs surfaced anew after Sen. Grace Poe bared an abduction involving the industry last December.

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Chua said no amount of economic gains from the POGO industry could justify the social costs it brings.

He added POGOs' presence in the Philippines only spoils the country's reputation in the world market.

"It discourages foreign investors to invest in the Philippines... [especially] if POGO-related crimes remain prevalent and left unchecked," he said.

Ko Bengsum, secretary general the Philippine Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, meanwhile, urged the PNP to intensify police visibility in the country to prevent similar crimes.