Tarlac officials condemn POGO operations
PROVINCIAL officials in Tarlac issued a statement condemning the illegal online gambling amid the ongoing controversies hounding Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) across the country, particularly in the province.
The statement, issued on May 10 but was released to the media on May 13 through the provincial information office, was said to have been issued by Gov. Susan Yap, Vice Gov. Carlito David and the 13 members of the provincial board.
It said provincial officials unequivocally denounce any and all forms of illegal online gambling and their stance on the matter remains steadfast and has always been consistent.
As early as Jan. 14, 2021 the province, through Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution 10-2021, had already condemned reported illegal offshore online gambling activities.
“This is in line with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s (Pagcor) press release dated Sept. 25, 2020, where the public was once again advised not to engage in any unauthorized gambling activities offered by unscrupulous individuals and groups,” it said.
“While illegal gambling per se is not among the predicate crimes of money laundering, frauds and swindling. These are based on the act of taking bets from the public by falsely representing that they have a legitimate business, when in fact, they have no such authority,” the statement added.
The statement also noted that the provincial government of Tarlac strictly maintains its policy of adherence to the rule of law and does not countenance any contrary act.
“Illegal gambling in whatever form, is strongly denounced. Illegal online gambling poses dire economic consequences, as it deprives the government of potential tax revenue that could be utilized for public benefit. It jeopardizes the businesses of licensed and legal operators,” it stated.
The provincial officials said the shadow economy created by these illegal operations “also provides a venue for a plethora of several other crimes such as underage gambling, money laundering, and fraud.”
“Illegal online gambling is a breeding ground for online identity theft, online scams and internet fraud. Its continued operations allow illegal funds to remain undetected, undermining the integrity of our legal and financial system,” they said in the statement.
“Let it be clear that records of both the Provincial Government as well as of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board) do not show any agreement or resolution authorizing any entity, public or private, local or foreign, to engage in or operate an online offshore gambling within the territorial jurisdiction of the Province of Tarlac,” they added.
The officials affirmed their support in the government’s efforts aimed at eradicating illegal operations and the province shall continue to actively join and cooperate in all activities aimed at eradicating illegal online offshore gambling.