PNP eyes clearances for POGO workers

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) wants stricter measures imposed on Philippine offshore gaming operator employers in the wake of the rising number of POGO-related kidnappings in the country, an official said on Monday.

Among these is requiring foreigners who are seeking to work as POGO employees in the country to first secure national police clearances, PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said.

Azurin said this would be easier for the authorities to conduct a background check in the event they become victims of kidnapping.

“We can find out if they are still here. Are they still working for the same company or have they transferred?” he said in a news briefing.

“Are they overstaying? So there is a need for someone to monitor,” Azurin added.

He also wants to have a list from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) of legitimate POGO firms in the country.

This includes the addresses of POGO companies, noting that some businesses have not even obtained permits from local government units.

Data from the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group showed a 25-percent increase in POGO-related kidnapping cases, from 12 last year to 15 so far this year.

The PNP earlier said it will deploy more police officers in areas where POGO firms are located to prevent kidnappings.