Illegal Pogos linked to incompetent LGU officials

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (Pogo) continuing to operate illegally could result from the incompetence of local executives, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) spokesperson John Casio said on Thursday.

Casio was asked about the liabilities of local chief executives when it came to massive buildings for Pogos, like the gaming facilities raided in Porac, Pampanga.

“No self-respecting local chief executive can tell himself or herself that ‘I didn’t know they were doing this or that’,” said Casio on ANC’s Headstart.

Pressed if local executives allowing illegal Pogo activities indicated incompetence or complicity, Casio said he would prefer the former.

“At the very least, it’s incompetence. I hate to think of the other side of the equation.

Casio explained that the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) is responsible for casinos with licenses. Gaming hubs operating without a license are the responsibility of law enforcement agencies.

Casio, however, emphasized that Pagcor’s non-issuance or cancellation of a permit is not enough.

They must work with local officials to make sure that gaming hubs without a permit stay closed, he added.

“Both Pagcor and the LGU (local government unit) of Porac have some explaining to do when it comes to why this particular operation continued up to June 4 or 5,” said Casio.

While Porac Mayor Jaime Capil did not issue a business permit to Lucky South 99 for 2024, Casio questioned why the hub was still operating until June.