Manila Philippines – The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) has welcomed the decision of President Bongbong Marcos Jr. to ban all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) by the end of this year.
According to FFCCCII, they support the pronouncement of the president as it imposes the ‘Philippines’ international public image, enhance peace and order’.
This steps also strengthen the bilateral relations between the Philippine and China, for the longest time that Chinese government requested a total ban of controversial POGOs.
“It is hoped that this will improve the Philippines’ international public image, enhance peace and order, and help strengthen our country’s bilateral relations with China, as the Chinese government has long requested a total ban on the controversial POGOs,” according to the statement of FFCCCII.
The Chinese Embassy in Manila also expressed their support to president’s remarks in his State of the Nation Address (SONA).
“We believe this decision echoes the call of the Philippine people and serves the common interests of people of both countries,” said Chinese Embassy in Manila, in a statement.
The Chinese government emphasized the crimes related and originated from POGOs.
“POGO breeds serious crimes and gravely undermines the interests of both Philippine and Chinese peoples,” it added.
The Philippines’ chief executive has ordered the total ban of POGOs in the country by the end of 2024.