China welcomes PH ban on POGOs

China on Thursday welcomed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. 's directive to ban Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) which have become a den of various illegal activities. 

“We have noted President Marcos’ announcement of banning all POGOs and welcome this development. We believe this decision echoes the call of the Philippine people and serves the common interests of people of both countries,” the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines said in a statement. 

In his third State of the Nation Address, Marco said POGOs had ventured into illicit activities following a series of raids of several hubs that led to the discovery of torture chambers, love scams, and other crimes.

The Chinese embassy had urged the Philippine government to outlaw POGOs in Manila, noting that Beijing does not tolerate any forms of gambling.

The embassy reiterated its stance with POGOs, adding that China is ready to help in cracking them down.

“The Chinese government strictly cracks down on Chinese citizens engaging in overseas gambling businesses including POGO… In line with this commitment, China is ready to continue its strong law enforcement cooperation with the Philippines and better protect the safety and well-being of the two peoples.”

In 2023, the Chinese government helped the Philippines shut down five POGO hubs and repatriate nearly 1,000 Chinese citizens, the embassy previously said.

Recent raids at POGO hubs have sparked debates among government officials over the potential harm these enterprises pose to national security and the possibility of banning them. —Vince Ferreras/RF, GMA Integrated News