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A two-year-old girl has become stateless because of her parents' deportation. Her parents were linked to the now-illegal POGO trade.  A two-year-old girl whose parents are Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) workers has found herself caught in the crossfire of her father and mother’s deportation.  Yao Yao, the daughter of a deported Chinese POGO worker and a Vietnamese mother, faces significant hurdles in joining her mother in Vietnam due to her lack of documentation. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) is currently providing temporary care for Yao Yao while her mother, Lucky, navigates the complex immigration process. “Lumalabas na ‘yong bata ay stateless dahil maghihintay pa siya ng siguro 18 years old para makapamili [ng nationality niya] (It turned out that the child will be stateless because she will wait until 18 years old to choose her nationality),” said PAOCC chairman Gilbert Cruz.  The PAOCC is hopeful that the Vietnamese embassy will grant permission for Yao Yao to accompany her mother, ensuring the child receives the necessary maternal care. “If Yao Yao stays, I stay. If Yao Yao leaves, I will also leave,” Lucky, her mother said, as reported by GMA News. Lucky and Yao Yao’s father broke up even before he was deported.  “Kung ia-allow naman siya ng embassy ng Vietnam na pumunta sa Vietnam with Yao Yao then ok lang yun. Mas ok sa amin yun, Kasi kailangan talaga ang kalinga ng nanay (If the Vietnam embassy allows her to go to Vietnam with Yao Yao, then it’s okay with us. In fact, that would be better. Because she needs her mother’s care).”  While under the PAOCC’s care, Yao Yao and her mother provide them with food, diapers, and milk. Sometimes, employees allowed her to use their gadgets.  Despite the challenges, Lucky remains optimistic, believing that the warmth and kindness she and Yao Yao have experienced in the Philippines will be a cherished memory for her daughter. Yao Yao’s story is just among those of other POGO workers who made a life in the Philippines.  Some of these POGO workers, a large number of which hail from Chinese descent, also started families with Filipinos and face a similar dilemma of leaving their loved ones behind once the December 31 deadline of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reins in.  Jamaica, a Filipina who has a Chinese partner, hopes the government could consider giving them aid. “Sana tulungan po nila kami, na may mga anak dito sa Pilipinas,” Jamaica tearfully said, in GMA News’ nightly news program 24 Oras.  The Department of Social Welfare and Development is currently coordinating with PAOCC to help families of POGO workers.  “Ang DSWD ay nagrereach out na sa PAOCC para makuha natin ang details at ma-turn over sa ating pangangalaga ng nanay at ang kanilang mga anak (The DSWD has reached out to PAOCC so we could get the details and turn them over to our care),” said DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao, adding that they could provide livelihood assistance to mothers.  Read related article: Kids of Deported POGO Workers Being Helped by PAOCC

Sherwin Gatchalian to launch probe on how fugitives are able to leave: “This suggests a well-organized syndicate, corrupt officials, or weakness in our system.” Harry Roque will be staying out of the Philippines until the Supreme Court orders him to go back.  In an interview with dzBB, the former presidential spokesman maintains his right to travel since he says a hold departure order has not been issued against him.  “I am waiting for the decision of the Supreme Court or I will wait for the current Congress to end,” said Roque, as reported by the Philippine Star.  Roque, who has been in hiding, recently submitted a counter-affidavit in response to a POGO-related trafficking case against him. The complaint was notarized in Abu Dhabi. He is also a subject in a Congressional complaint.  Roque, along with Mercides Macabasa and Ley Tan, has been added to a list of individuals under investigation, which also includes Cassandra Ong and 53 others. He views the complaint as unfounded and believes his inclusion is an afterthought rather than a substantive claim. “First, I don’t expect fair hearing at the Congress since their investigation is in aid of legislation. If we want justice, we should go to the court,” he said. “If the Supreme Court ordered that I need to submit the documents, I will comply with the order of the judiciary but based on my knowledge as a lawyer, I know I am right,” he added. Immigration authorities are currently studying possible cases against Roque after it was implied that he falsified documents to get out of the Philippines.  He did not respond to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) statement because it would “[be] difficult to comment as according to them [BI], they will file a case against me.”  The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has also verified Roque’s presence at the Philippine embassy in Abu Dhabi. Senator Eyes Probe Senator Sherwin Gatchalian announced he is considering filing a resolution to probe the alarming ease with which suspects, despite facing congressional scrutiny over their links to illegal POGOs, manage to bypass immigration controls. He pointed to Roque, who managed to travel to Abu Dhabi, where he had his counter-affidavit notarized in relation to a human trafficking case against him. Gatchalian noted that Roque's escape is not an isolated incident, referencing the case of Alice Guo, the former mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, who fled to Malaysia before eventually hiding in Indonesia, where she was arrested. “This is really concerning, how high-profile figures like Harry Roque–who should be easily tracked–were still able to slip past authorities. So it’s either there is a syndicate or corrupt officials, who allowed him to escape. Or it can be because of the weakness in the system,” Gatchalian said. “I am still studying about filing a resolution. I’m looking at this very seriously.”  Read related article:   Falsification Rap Eyed For Harry Roque After Possible Illegal Exit

A man was arrested in Cebu for stealing P10,000 from an internet cafe. The suspect said he used part of the money to gamble on the online casino game Scatter. A 21-year-old man was taken into custody by authorities in Barangay Lahug, Cebu City, for allegedly stealing P10,000 worth of coins from a local internet cafe. The incident occurred around 4:00 AM on December 4, 2024. The suspect, identified only as Gabriel, was apprehended roughly an hour later. Following his arrest, Gabriel confessed to the crime but revealed that the stolen funds had already been spent. He admitted to sharing a portion of the money with friends and using the remainder to gamble on an online casino game known as "Scatter." Scatter , a popular form of online gambling, has gained significant traction in the Philippines. The platform's user-friendly interface, coupled with exciting promotions and bonuses, has contributed to its rapid growth in popularity. Additionally, the accessibility of online gaming, especially through mobile devices, has made Scatter a convenient choice for Filipino gamers. Its convenience has also made it an addictive platform for many Pinoys.  In an interview with Brigada News FM Cebu, Gabriel attributed his actions to both hunger and unemployment. He expressed remorse for the theft but justified his actions as a desperate attempt to alleviate his dire circumstances. The incident serves as a stark reminder for internet cafe operators to prioritize security measures and implement robust safeguards to protect their businesses and assets. Law enforcement authorities are urging cafe owners to consider installing surveillance cameras, employing security personnel, and limiting the amount of cash kept on-site to minimize the risk of future thefts. As Gabriel faces charges of theft, his case highlights the potential consequences of impulsive actions driven by desperation. It underscores the importance of seeking legitimate means of income and avoiding harmful behaviors like gambling, which can lead to financial ruin and legal trouble. Read related article: WHO Urges Stricter Measures for Gambling Regulation

Did key figures from a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) play a role in facilitating Harry Roque’s escape from the Philippines? Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros has raised the possibility that former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque’s escape from the Philippines may have been facilitated by individuals connected to a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO).  Roque, who was recently spotted in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), is facing serious legal trouble in the Philippines, including charges tied to human trafficking and alleged financial misconduct. Hontiveros' remarks on December 4, 2024, pointed to Dubai, a known hub for POGOs, as a potential location where key players could have assisted Roque in fleeing the country. “Dubai [in UAE] is a POGO hub, so it’s possible that POGO actors helped him escape,” Hontiveros was quoted as saying in an Inquirer report.  “The BI still has a lot of explaining to do. Kahit ang pagtakas ni Guo Hua Ping papuntang Indonesia, wala pa rin silang sagot kung paano nangyari (Even on Guo Hua Ping's escape to Indonesia, they still have no answer as to how it happened),” said Hontiveros, referring to Alice Guo who is believed to be the Chinese national Guo Hua Ping.  The Senator also called on law enforcement agencies to swiftly investigate the situation, emphasizing the need for accountability in Roque’s unexpected departure. Roque, who served as the spokesperson for former President Rodrigo Duterte, is at the center of multiple legal controversies. Most recently, he has been implicated in a high-profile human trafficking case involving the Lucky South 99 Corporation, a POGO hub. The case has attracted significant attention due to the nature of the alleged activities, including illegal online gambling and exploitation. Roque’s involvement in the trafficking case has led to an arrest order from the House of Representatives, which cited him for contempt after he failed to submit necessary documents to explain his wealth’s sudden increase during his tenure in public office. Bureau of Immigration Questions the Legality of Roque's Departure The Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) has confirmed that Roque did not depart through legal channels. BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated that their records do not show any formal departure attempts made by Roque in recent weeks.  “He most probably falsified immigration clearances to be accepted by his destination country,” Viado said, adding that the Bureau’s legal team is already considering filing additional complaints against Roque for his alleged illegal travel. Roque’s abrupt exit has raised eyebrows, particularly given his legal situation. The BI has been under scrutiny for its handling of several high-profile escapes. The Senate has already called for a thorough review of the BI's processes, questioning how individuals involved in criminal activities are able to slip past immigration checks. The Senator voiced her frustration over the apparent ease with which fugitives slip through immigration controls, while ordinary Filipinos face unnecessary hurdles. "Kapag mga ordinaryong Pilipino na lumalabas ng bansa, pahirapahan sa Immigration, pero kapag mga pugante, tila ang dali makalusot (When ordinary Filipinos leave the country, Immigration makes it hard for them. But for fugitives, they seem to get through easily)," Hontiveros remarked. With the official ban on POGOs in the country, she emphasized that individuals linked to the industry should no longer hold any sway within government agencies, especially the Bureau of Immigration. Hontiveros has been outspoken about the need for stronger international cooperation to combat human trafficking, which she says is being fueled in part by the unchecked growth of POGOs in the region.  As authorities continue to probe Roque’s escape, many are watching closely to see how the investigation unfolds and whether it will lead to wider reforms in the POGO industry and the country’s immigration policies. Read related article: Falsification Rap Eyed For Harry Roque After Possible Illegal Exit

The proposed Fraudulent Birth Certificate Cancellation Law (HB 11117) was created following a House inquiry into illegal drug operations and POGO-related offenses. The House Committee on Population and Family Relations gave its preliminary approval, subject to modification, to a legislation that would create an administrative procedure to quickly revoke birth certificates that have been unlawfully obtained by foreign nationals. Following a House of Representatives select committee inquiry into illegal drug operations and offenses related to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), the proposed Fraudulent Birth Certificate Cancellation Law (House Bill 11117) was created. Bienvenido Abante Jr., Manila Rep. and chairperson of the quad committee, emphasized in an interview the significance of the legislation in combating the usage of counterfeit documents. Abante was quoted as saying in a PNA report, “Kasi sa Quad Comm nakita namin ang napakaraming mga Chinese na nakakuha ng passport, and the only way for them to have an official passport would be that they would have officially legal certificates, birth certificates. E, ‘di naman sila pinanganak dito, taga-China naman sila (Because in the Quad Comm, we saw so many Chinese who obtained passports, and the only way for them to have an official passport would be if they had official legal certificates, like birth certificates. But they weren’t born here, they’re from China).” The bill would address fraudulent methods that allow foreigners to obtain Philippine birth certificates, giving them access to opportunities that are only available to Filipino citizens, and making it easier for them to engage in illicit activities, according to Abante. He was hopeful that the bill would be passed quickly before the end of the 19th Congress. From investigations conducted by the quad committee, it was revealed that there were over 1,200 fake birth certificates that were issued by local civil registrars to foreign nationals. These fake birth certificates were used to purchase property in the Philippines and establish businesses. The proposed measure calls for the creation of a Special Committee on the Cancellation of Fraudulent Birth Certificates, which would be led by the Registrar General of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The committee would also include representatives from the Departments of Foreign Affairs, Justice, and the Interior and Local Government, as well as the Office of the Solicitor General. This committee would be responsible for investigating complaints, issuing subpoenas, and making determinations on cases involving fraudulent birth certificates within a 30-day period, based on the evidence presented. Complaints could be filed by any legal-age citizen or law enforcement agency, provided they include specific details, such as the name of the foreign national, information about the fraudulent birth certificate, and the circumstances surrounding its acquisition. The foreign national implicated in the complaint would have 15 days to respond, after which the committee would conduct hearings and issue decisions based on the evidence.  Decisions made by the committee would take immediate effect but could be appealed to the Office of the President. The bill also stipulates penalties for both public officials and private individuals found to be involved in facilitating the fraudulent registration of birth certificates. Read related article: Stricter Laws on Immigration, Money Laundering After POGO Probe

Some Singaporeans are gambling their way into getting limited edition Labubu toys. Authorities have warned that these are violations of the Gambling Control Act. A growing number of Singaporeans are turning to illegal online gambling to acquire limited edition Labubu toys, authorities warn.  Social media platforms like TikTok have become breeding grounds for illicit scratch-and-win games, where participants risk substantial sums of money for a chance to win the coveted collectibles. These collectibles, trademarked by POPMART and created by Kasing Lung, have been popular worldwide and used by fashion icons, making it a hot commodity especially in Asia.  Channel News Asia reported that some wagers throw in as much as SGD$150 for a slot at some of these scratch and win or roulette games. Some of the rewards include limited-edition plush toys, including the Hide and Seek version that’s inspired by Singaporean mascot Merlion.  These livestreams last for about five hours, with tens to hundreds of viewers per session, indicated the report.  Authorities warn that these flout the Gambling Control Act.  "First timers can be fined up to 500,000 SGD and imprisoned term exceeding 7 years. This is for first time offenders. Repeat offenders can have a fine of 700,000 SGD," Yuen Law managing director Samuel Yuen said, adding that underage players could be fined $1500.   TikTok has taken down these videos, saying they "do not permit the promotion or facilitation of gambling or gambling-like activities."  However, some of these accounts decided to stealthily promote their services even after the ban.  Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority encouraged the public to report “illegal remote gambling activities.”  “Under the Gambling Control Act, GRA has the powers to impose prohibited measures against illegal remote gambling activities,” it said in a statement.  Singapore’s police also said it issued an advisory against a live-streamer doing similar activities, while refusing to disclose these accounts.  Read related article:   Singapore Gambling Declines, But Illegal Online Betting Rises

“He most probably falsified immigration clearances to be accepted by his destination country,” said authorities about Harry Roque leaving the Philippines. Immigration authorities are currently probing Harry Roque for possibly departing the Philippines illegally, after he confirmed filing a counter-affidavit in response to a qualified human trafficking case in Abu Dhabi. “Our records show there were no recent attempts by Roque to leave the country through formal immigration channels. Therefore, we believe he may have left the country illegally, possibly with the help of unscrupulous individuals,” Bureau of Immigration (BI) spokesperson Dana Sandoval explained in a statement, as reported by The Filipino Times.  Roque discreetly left the country amid a Congressional probe on his links to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).  Roque did not leave the country, or even attempt to leave, via formal channels based on immigration records. But BI chief Joel Viado believes he may have falsified documents to escape the Philippines.  “He most probably falsified immigration clearances to be accepted by his destination country,” Viado said as quoted by a Rappler report.  In a supplemental complaint to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Roque–along with Mercides Macabasa and Ley Tan–has been added to a list of suspects that includes Cassandra Ong and 53 others. The allegations involve violations of Republic Act (RA) 9208, the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act. Roque denied any involvement in trafficking activities, stating there is no evidence linking him to recruiting, transporting, or profiting from human trafficking, nor is there proof of conspiracy. He described the complaint as baseless and insists that his inclusion is merely an afterthought. "My inclusion, along with Whirlwind Corporation and Lucky South 99 Outsourcing, Inc., is an attempt to cover up deficiencies in the evidence. There are no overt acts of trafficking or qualified human trafficking that implicate me,” Roque stated in his counter-affidavit. The BI official pointed out that while the Philippines doesn’t have a dedicated law addressing “illegal departures,” Harry Roque could still face charges for document falsification. “There’s no specific law in the Philippines covering illegal departures like in other countries, but charges can be filed under other offenses, such as falsifying documents,” Sandoval explained. Based on BI records, Roque’s last international trip was in July, when he returned from Los Angeles, USA. Sandoval confirmed that there have been no further attempts to leave the country since then. Roque also has an  Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) against him.  “Since he is on the ILBO, any attempt to leave legally would have been caught by our immigration officers,” Sandoval said.  Read related article:   Harry Roque Files Counter-Affidavit in Abu Dhabi Amid POGO Probe

Harry Roque signed his counter-affidavit in Abu Dhabi on Nov 29, 2024. He refutes human trafficking charges filed against him while denying his links to POGOs. Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque is in Abu Dhabi, based on the counter-affidavit he filed on the case linking him to the now-illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) industry.  In a 22-page response, Roque dismissed the charges as politically motivated, claiming a lack of evidence against him. Prosecutor-General Richard Anthony Fadullon confirmed that Roque signed his counter-affidavit in Abu Dhabi on November 29, 2024. “It would appear that he had a document which was notarized pero dun siya sa (but he is in) Abu Dhabi. So, the panel opted to give the respondent a chance to call for a clarificatory hearing which would be scheduled anytime between now and the 16th of December. The purpose is to clarify certain issues and find out really where Mr. Harry Roque is at this point in time,” Fadullon said, as reported by the PNA.  Roque has been barred from leaving the Philippines due to an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order and is facing an arrest warrant issued by the House of Representatives for contempt amid a probe linking him to the operations of Lucky South 99 in Porac, Pampanga. This stems from his failure to provide financial documents to explain a sudden increase in his wealth. On October 28, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) pressed human trafficking charges against Roque and two others. They are accused of involvement in the operations of Lucky South 99 Corporation, a POGO hub that was raided in Porac, Pampanga. In a supplemental complaint filed with the Department of Justice (DOJ), Roque, Mercides Macabasa, and Ley Tan were added to the list of suspects originally named in September, including Cassandra Ong and 53 others. The charges cite violations of Republic Act (RA) 9208, the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, as amended by RA 10364 and further amended by RA 11862. Roque claimed that there was no proof linking him to any trafficking activities, such as recruiting, transporting, harboring, or profiting from individuals involved in human trafficking, nor was there any evidence of conspiracy. Roque tried to dismiss the complaint, claiming that his involvement was “mere afterthought.” “My inclusion, as well as the inclusion of Whirlwind Corporation and Lucky South 99 Outsourcing, Inc. were mere afterthoughts. The inclusion of the two corporations was intended to cure the deficiency of the evidence presented both in the original complaint and the supplemental complaint affidavit that utterly failed to identify any overt act of trafficking or qualified human trafficking that will implicate me,” Roque wrote in his 22-page counter-affidavit. The former government official further argued that there was nothing unlawful about him joining Ong for a meeting with executives of Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). “(T)hat meeting on 26 July 2023 was for a legitimate purpose, i.e., to discuss the arrears of Lucky South 99, and how PAGCOR was intending to deny the pending application of the said corporation for the renewal of its Internet Gaming License should the arrears be not settled,” read his counter-affidavit.  Despite an initial report suggesting he was out of the country, the National Bureau of Investigation has contradicted this claim. Vice President Sara Duterte, during her November 23 online press conference, insinuated that Roque might have already left the country. Read related article :   DOJ Says Roque Counter-affidavit Could Indicate Whereabouts

Dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, who has been accused of being a Chinese spy, has filed a petition to stop a deportation case against her. Deportation proceedings began for former Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo. However, her camp has taken legal action to counter this move. Guo has filed a petition for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) with Branch 47 of the Manila Regional Trial Court in relation to her deportation case. Hearings and oral arguments on the matter began on December 3, 2024.  "There was a hearing regarding the TRO on Ma'am Alice's pending immigration case, so today we had oral arguments for the petition we filed," said Nicole Jamilla, Guo's lawyer. Based on an investigation by the National Bureau of Investigation, Guo's fingerprints matched those of a Chinese national named Guo Hua Ping. Lawmakers claim that Alice Guo and Guo Hua Ping are the same person. However, Guo has previously insisted that she is a Filipino. Her lawyer also asserted that Guo is a Filipino and there is no indication that she is a Chinese citizen. The former mayor's camp clarified that Guo has several pending cases, including qualified human trafficking in the Pasig RTC and material misrepresentation before the Commission on Elections. Guo's camp believes they have sufficient evidence to fight the deportation case. This is a document about the arraignment of Alice Guo for misrepresentation. It discusses the charges against her and the court proceedings. The Tarlac RTC has set the arraignment for December 5, 2024.  The controversial mayor is also facing a non-bailable charge of qualified human trafficking for allegedly conspiring to allow an illegal POGO in her town, aside from graft charges.   She has also been implicated as a potential "agent of influence." While the National Bureau of Investigation has linked her fingerprints to a Chinese national, concrete evidence of her being a spy is still lacking.  She has denied all accusations against her. Read related article:   Intelligence Official Says Alice Guo “Agent of Influence”

Some 20,000 foreign workers of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) are set to depart the country, less than a month before the government’s deadline. The Philippines is bracing for the departure of thousands more foreign workers employed by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) as the government’s deadline for the industry’s shutdown approaches. The Philippines is bracing for the departure of thousands more foreign workers employed by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) as the government’s deadline for the industry’s shutdown approaches. The Bureau of Immigration (BI) estimates that around 20,000 more foreign POGO workers will leave the country in the coming weeks. As of November 7, 2023, a total of 21,757 foreign POGO workers have already downgraded their work visas to temporary visitor visas. “The BI expects around 20,000 more foreign POGO workers to leave in the next few weeks,” the agency said in a statement, quoted by INQUIRER.NET .  President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. imposed a ban on POGO operations in the Philippines due to concerns over their minimal economic contribution and significant social costs. The government's decision to shut down the industry has led to job displacement for thousands of Filipino and foreign workers. “Out of the approved applications for downgrading, 10,821 foreign nationals have since left the country already,” Immigration said.  Displaced POGO workers To assist displaced POGO workers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is organizing job fairs across the country. However, some POGO workers have expressed reluctance to participate in these job fairs, citing various reasons. Despite these challenges, the DOLE remains committed to helping displaced POGO workers find new employment opportunities.  “Tuloy-tuloy pa rin kami kahit sa January, February na tutulong sa mga naapektuhang IGLs (internet gaming licensees). Sisiguraduhin po natin na tutulungan natin lahat lalapit sa DOLE (We would continue to help affected employees of IGLs even in January, February next year. We would make sure that all those who would approach the DOLE would be assisted)," Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said in a press briefing, as quoted by the Philippine News Agency.  The agency is urging foreign POGO workers to comply with the December 31 deadline to leave the Philippines. Read related article:   Catholic Group Monitoring Enforcement of POGO Ban

Tagged as the largest POGO hub in the Philippines, Island Cove is owned by businessman Kim Wong. It is now officially closed as of November 30, 2024. The Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub located at Island Cove in Cavite has officially shut down a month earlier than the December 31 deadline set by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The closure, which took place on November 30, 2024, marks a significant step in the government’s push to close down all POGOs operating in the country by the end of the year. A photo obtained by Politiko showed a tarpaulin displayed at the entrance of the Island Cove facility, announcing the shutdown: "ISLAND COVE IS OFFICIALLY CLOSED as of Nov. 30, 2024." This early closure came as a result of mounting pressure from the government to shut down POGOs, which have faced increasing scrutiny over their alleged ties to organized crime and illegal activities. Largest POGO Hub in the Philippines Island Cove, a sprawling 36-hectare property in Cavite, has long been known as one of the largest POGO hubs in the Philippines. It was owned by businessman Kim Wong, a prominent figure in the local gaming industry. Last October, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla had vowed that the facility would be shut down by December 15, 2024, in line with the government’s broader plan to eliminate POGOs operating in the country. The closure of Island Cove is part of a broader crackdown on POGOs, which have been facing increasing criticism from various sectors of society. The government has cited concerns about the impact of these gaming operations on public order, the rise of illegal gambling activities, and reports of criminal syndicates using POGOs as fronts for illicit operations. Presidential Mandate for POGO Closure In his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) earlier this year, President Marcos ordered the closure of all POGOs operating within the country by the end of 2024. This directive came in response to growing concerns over the negative effects of the POGO industry, particularly its links to human trafficking, money laundering, and other forms of organized crime. READ: President Marcos Signs Executive Order 74 Enforcing POGO Ban The Philippine government has been increasingly vocal about the need to regulate or shut down POGOs. These gambling operations, which cater mainly to foreign nationals, particularly Chinese nationals, have been the subject of numerous investigations due to their alleged involvement in illegal activities. Despite being a source of revenue for the country, the government has prioritized national security and social stability over the economic benefits that the POGO sector provides. Remulla’s Denial of Involvement Jonvic Remulla, the Interior Secretary, who previously held ownership of Island Cove through his family, has strongly denied any personal involvement in the POGO industry. In response to accusations linking his family to the operations at Island Cove, Remulla offered a P10-million reward to anyone who could provide evidence of his family’s involvement in gaming activities at the leisure hub.  Remulla has faced scrutiny due to his family’s past ties to Island Cove, and the POGO operations conducted there. Despite his public denial, the allegations of political and business connections to the POGO industry have continued to circulate, raising questions about the extent of government involvement in the sector. The closure of Island Cove, however, signals the government's commitment to enforcing the President’s directive. Remulla has maintained that his family’s interests in Island Cove were unrelated to the POGO operations that took place there, further insisting that he and his family had no direct involvement in the gaming industry. Impact on Local Economy and Workers The closure of Island Cove has led to uncertainty for the thousands of employees working in the POGO hub. As one of the largest POGO facilities in the country, Island Cove employed many individuals across various sectors, including security, administration, and customer service. With the sudden closure, many workers are now facing the prospect of job loss. Local businesses in the area that relied on the influx of POGO employees and foreign clients may also feel the economic impact of the shutdown. Island Cove’s closure is part of a broader trend of the Philippine government moving to shut down POGOs, potentially leading to job losses and disruptions to local economies, particularly in areas that have become heavily reliant on the sector. Government’s Ongoing Crackdown on POGOs The early closure of Island Cove is just one of several steps taken by the government in its ongoing effort to shut down all POGOs in the country by the end of the year. In addition to Island Cove, several other POGO hubs across the Philippines have already been raided or closed, with authorities continuing to monitor the industry for any further illegal activities. The Philippine government’s crackdown on POGOs is expected to continue into 2025, as officials work to address concerns over national security, crime, and illegal gambling. Read related article: 5,000 Cavite Jobs at Risk as Kawit POGO Hub Faces Closure

Indonesia is pushing for the rehabilitation of teenagers exposed to online gambling. Indonesia is pushing for the rehabilitation of teenagers affected by online gambling, instead of criminalizing them.  The government is concerned about the rising number of young people who are getting addicted to online gambling and is looking for ways to help them recover. According to government data, some 960,000 out of 8.8 million Indonesians affected by online gambling are school and university students.  "They are victims of a system that is not protecting them enough. Hence, the main strategy to address them should be through rehabilitation instead of punitive approaches," the ministry's deputy for youth empowerment, Asrorun Ni'am Sholeh said in a statement last December 3, as quoted by Indonesian news agency Antara.  READ: UN Warns of Illegal Online Gambling; SE Asia Faces $37B Loss The government's rehabilitation program will provide support and education to young people who are affected by online gambling. The program will help them to develop digital skills and to avoid harmful online activities. The government will also offer support to those who are struggling with financial difficulties or relationship issues related to gambling. "We encourage them to be content creators, YouTubers, or other digital-related professions. From merely idling, they can now relax on the beach while the money comes to them," Sholeh shared.  Online gambling is illegal in Indonesia. However, it is still prevalent, especially among young people. This is due to the easy access to online gambling sites and the lack of awareness about the dangers of online gambling. The Indonesian government has been cracking down on online gambling. In 2022, the government blocked over 600,000 gambling websites. However, new websites continue to emerge, making it difficult to completely eradicate online gambling. By focusing on rehabilitation and education, Indonesia aims to create a futur e generation that uses technology responsibly and avoids the pitfalls of online gambling. Read related article: 960K Indonesian Students Gamble Online: Gov’t Data