The Deadly World Of Philippines' Offshore Gambling Syndicates | Undercover Asia | CNA Documentary

Recent questions

• What is the impact of POGOs in the Philippines?

  POGOs in the Philippines have led to a surge in criminal activities like human trafficking, kidnapping, and sex crimes. They are linked to corruption at immigration checkpoints, facilitating illegal entry for Chinese employees. The presence of POGOs has also resulted in the exploitation of employees, with many facing deception, poor working conditions, and fear for their lives. The industry has created a network of illegal operations, contributing to a rise in crime and social issues within the country.

• How do POGOs operate in the Philippines?

  POGOs in the Philippines operate through joint ventures with Filipino companies, with a hierarchy from owners abroad to on-site supervisors. They recruit aggressively, serving millions of online customers yearly. POGOs hire mostly Chinese employees, deceiving them about their roles and trapping many in the Philippines. Frontline employees include card dealers, marketing personnel, tech support, and customer service, often living in fear due to the nature of their work.

• What measures are being taken against illegal POGOs in the Philippines?

  The National Bureau of Investigation, led by Victor Lorenzo, is cracking down on illegal POGOs in the Philippines. They have conducted raids to shut down these operations, focusing on online gambling activities. Over 200 illegally operating POGOs were identified in 2019, with arrests made among ground staff while their overseas-based bosses and financiers remain elusive. Efforts are being made to dismantle the network of illegal POGOs and curb the associated criminal activities.

• How are Chinese POGO employees exploited in the Philippines?

  Chinese POGO employees in the Philippines are often exploited through deception, poor working conditions, and fear for their safety. They are lured into roles under false pretenses and end up trapped in the country. Some employees, like Miss C, have faced deception and attempted to escape the exploitative conditions. The presence of POGOs has also led to the exploitation of women, with reports of ordering women for services at varying prices, including girls as young as 15 years old.

• What criminal activities are associated with POGOs in the Philippines?

  POGOs in the Philippines are linked to various criminal activities, including human trafficking, kidnapping, and sex crimes. The industry has facilitated corruption at immigration checkpoints, allowing illegal entry for Chinese employees. There are ties to prostitution rings catering to Chinese employees, with reports of ordering women for services at prices starting at 6,000 pesos per woman. The presence of POGOs has contributed to a surge in crime and social issues within the country.