Senator Sherwin Gatchalian called for “sustained action” to eliminate POGOs from the country, underscoring the need to dismantle criminal syndicates associated with the industry that has been linked to various illegal activities, including human trafficking and kidnapping.
“More than ever, we need to sustain our efforts to clear out all criminal syndicates that are products of POGOs. We must stay the course to ensure a safer and more secure Philippines for all Filipinos,” Gatchalian said.
The deadline for ceasing all POGO operations expired on December 31, 2024, but the senator warned that many of these operators have rebranded themselves as legitimate businesses, such as Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies and resorts.
He urged law enforcement agencies and local government units to remain vigilant against these disguised operations.
Gatchalian noted the Bureau of Immigration is currently working to deport approximately 11,000 former POGO workers who may pose security risks.
“Because they have evaded deportation, we can safely assume that these illegal aliens are onto something unlawful and vigilance of everyone is necessary to ensure that such activities are arrested and these aliens are deported as soon as possible,” he said.
Gatchalian likewise praised the Office of the Solicitor General for taking action against fraudulent birth certificates acquired by foreign nationals.
“We also urge them to accelerate their efforts in addressing fraudulent foreign nationals to more effectively prevent their abusive activities within the country.”
