The Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) controversy is not a national security that needs direct involvement from the country’s defense forces, the National Security Council (NSC) said on Wednesday.
“Currently, we do not view POGOs per se as a national security threat at the level that would necessitate the direct involvement of the defense forces,” National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said in a statement.
NSC Assistant Director General Francis Jude Lauengco said that the NSC considers several elements before they consider an issue as a national security threat.
“We look at some elements like territorial integrity, sovereignty, social cohesiveness, political stability. And at this point in time, we don’t see that happening,” he said.
“But we are, of course, we are now in consultation with the National Intelligence Board and the other agencies to get that assessment. So that this would help the president, later on, come up with a better appreciation on how to look at this POGO issue,” added the NSC official.
Año, on the other hand, said that the NSC is watching closely the ongoing Senate investigation into POGO operations in the country. “On its own, we are also doing our own assessment of its implications to national security,” he noted.
At the moment, the NSC views POGOs as a national concern that law enforcement and regulatory agencies can address. “Our lawmakers may also need to look into the pros and cons of allowing its continued operations,” their statement read.
The NSC noted there are legitimate POGOs that are duly licensed and regulated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and other government agencies, but illegal POGOs and those involved in scams and illegal activities should not be tolerated.
“The issues related to illegal POGOs, such as illegal activities and regulatory violations, can be addressed within the framework of existing government regulations and law enforcement mechanisms and does not warrant the intervention of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Año said.
The NSC assured that it will continue to work closely with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to gather comprehensive data and insights, providing a balanced and informed perspective.
It said this approach will help them ensure that any policy regarding the future of POGOs and other related operations in the Philippines are made with a clear understanding of their implications to national security.
“We appreciate the vigilance and dedication of our public officials and stakeholders in bringing this issue to the forefront as it brings awareness to our people and promotes a security mindset,” the NSC chief said.
“The NSC remains committed to protecting the interests and safety of the Filipino people, and will rigorously examine all aspects of POGO operations to ensure they do not pose a threat to national security,” Año added.
