SENATORS Risa Hontiveros has expressed serious concerns about potential connections between the recently arrested Chinese nationals and Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos).
This follows a series of allegations linking Pogo operations to high-ranking police and local government officials who are reportedly acting as protectors of these operations.
Mid last year, during a House quad committee hearing, Sta. Rosa, Laguna Representative Dan Fernandez revealed that a flagged Pogo in Cagayan de Oro has ties to Tony Yang, believed to be the elder brother of Michael Yang, a former economic adviser to President Rodrigo Duterte.
This revelation has heightened scrutiny around the Pogo industry, which has faced increased criticism due to its alleged ties to corruption.
However also last year, the Police Regional Office (PRO-10) in Northern Mindanao confirmed that no Pogo establishments are currently operating in Cagayan de Oro, with spokesperson Maj. Joanne Navarro stating that additional monitoring has yielded negative results.
She said that the police are directed by the NHQ to monitor whether we have Pogos in our Area of Responsibility; so far, there are none but we are continuing to monitor.
In a related development, Malacañang is set to bolster security measures following the arrest of two Chinese nationals and three Filipinos by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on February 20.
These individuals are accused of conducting surveillance on Malacañang, the military, and the police. Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro described the situation as "alarming," emphasizing the need to strengthen efforts against foreign espionage.
The NBI has been active in cracking down on suspected espionage activities, having arrested five Chinese nationals in January for allegedly monitoring the Philippine Coast Guard and Navy operations in Palawan.
Questions have also arisen regarding the citizenship of Li Duan Wang, a Chinese national proposed for naturalization. Hontiveros has raised objections due to concerns over possible links to Pogo activities.
Castro assured the public that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will carefully consider the matter before making a decision on the bill.
As investigations continue, the implications for local governance and national security remain significant, prompting calls for transparency and accountability in the Pogo sector.
