Senator Win Gatchalian has commended the provincial government of Bulacan for enacting an ordinance that bans Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) within their jurisdiction, aligning with an executive order from Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando.

Gatchalian also reiterated his call for all local government units to prohibit POGOs, citing ongoing concerns over illegal activities linked to the industry.

“LGUs should emulate the decisive action taken by the Bulacan provincial government and several other city governments to outlaw POGOs in our communities. Given the various criminal activities associated with POGO operations, our communities stand a better chance of achieving inclusive economic growth without POGOs,” Gatchalian said.

“Hindi na dapat nating payagan ang POGO na manatili pa sa ating mga komunidad kung gusto nating maging maganda ang peace and order situation sa ating mga lugar na kailangan para mas maging mabilis ang pag-unlad ng ating ekonomiya,” he added.

Aside from Bulacan, other LGUs that issued ordinances banning POGOs include Pasig and Valenzuela cities. The ordinance issued by the Bulacan provincial government follows discovery of criminal activities perpetrated in the guise of POGO operations in neighboring Tarlac and Pampanga provinces.

“A complete ban on POGOs is an inevitable step we have to take given the various social ills the industry is causing,” emphasized Gatchalian, reiterating his call for the President to ban all POGO operations in the country amid growing public demand.