Lawmaker sounds alarm on rising POGO-related crimes

The recent abduction of a student, suspected to be linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), highlights an alarming rise in criminal activities.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian warned that failure to act swiftly could lead to more cases targeting children.

“There is only one acceptable outcome in this manhunt: Full accountability for the perpetrators. Anything less is unacceptable,” Gatchalian said in a news release Friday.

Expressing grave concern, the senator pointed to reports that organized crime syndicates tied to POGOs are now preying on minors.

“This is not just an isolated case. It is a wake-up call. If we do not stop this immediately, it could mark the beginning of a wider modus operandi, where POGO-linked groups target our children,” he said.

To combat this threat, Gatchalian urged schools, parents, communities, and law enforcement agencies to collaborate in strengthening child protection efforts.

“It is appalling that these organized crime groups now endanger the lives of innocent children. Schools must collaborate with parents and authorities to ensure security measures are in place to keep our learners safe,” he said.

He also stressed the need to educate students on potential dangers to help them remain vigilant.

Meanwhile, Gatchalian called for intensified security measures following the recent arrest of Chinese nationals allegedly involved in espionage.

The senator emphasized that the arrest of suspected foreign spies near key government offices, including Malacañang Palace, highlights the urgent need for stronger national security.

“Dapat nating paigtingin na lalo ang ating pambansang seguridad lalo na sa gitna ng sigalot sa West Philippine Sea at sa lumalalang banta sa pandaigdigang kaayusan (We must intensify our national security especially with the conflict at the West Philippine Sea and the threat against world peace),” he said.