Plagued by POGO

What was supposed to be a routine inspection in the tourist haven of Moalboal led to a startling revelation. This week, authorities in Barangay Saavedra uncovered what appeared to be a new Philippine Offshore Gaming Operation (POGO) hub. Over 30 undocumented Chinese nationals were found inside a resort, located approximately seven kilometers from the main highway. Reports indicate that they checked into the facility on September 24 and, since then, have not checked out. The raiding team also seized computers and cellphones from the rented villas.

It seems that the illegal operation of POGO has not yet ceased in Cebu. Following the rescue and raid at another resort in Barangay Agus, Lapu-Lapu City, a more intensified operation was launched. Many speculate that those in Moalboal are some of those who escaped the raid in Pampanga or perhaps even those from Lapu-Lapu City. It is alarming to consider how these foreigners manage to enter our country undocumented and without fear. Their illegal operations continue unabated, even while on the run, showing a blatant disregard for our laws.

The issues of recruitment and coercion for work in these alleged scam farms are prevalent not only in our country but throughout Southeast Asia. Syndicates with malicious intent see this region as a relatively lax area for their operations. Developing countries, such as ours, often lack the robust law enforcement needed to effectively track down and apprehend these criminals. We are fortunate that our president has taken a firm stance, mandating a nationwide crackdown on this illegal business. However, in other regions, the absence of political will and possible collusion with powerful individuals have allowed these operations to continue deceiving innocent people.

The discovery in Moalboal serves as a wake-up call for other local towns and cities to conduct their own routine inspections. We cannot allow these foreigners to evade justice for their criminal activities simply because they belong to a different nationality. They must be held accountable for their actions, especially concerning the victims of their scams. A Chinese film entitled "No More Bets" portrays the real-life stories of individuals who were recruited and forced to work under appalling conditions. The desire for a better job has led many to fall prey to those orchestrating these operations.

We are still plagued by POGOs --a remnant of the previous administration's partnership with the Chinese government. Our senators and congressmen are grappling with the question of who masterminded this large-scale syndicate. An even more perplexing question is who facilitated their entry into our country. The Philippines is not a scam farm, and we have no room for tolerance toward international criminals. If we wish to maintain a positive image and ultimately benefit our society, someone must be held accountable. What was uncovered in Moalboal is merely the tip of the iceberg. More operations are likely to be discovered as authorities continue their investigations. The fight against POGO is far from over; in fact, it is only just beginning.