CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – Citing the high social costs vis-à-vis the minimal, if any, benefit derived from their operations in the country, a stalwart of the Pampanga business community called for the banning of all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the country, whether legal or illegal.
In a hearing at the sangguniang panlalawigan here on June 14, former president of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) Rene Romero articulated his group’s stand on POGOs, especially in the wake of the recent raid by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission on a POGO in Porac, Pampanga.
This, even as he lamented the “ease and laxity” with which the local government of Porac extended to the raided POGO.
“Kami pong legitimate businesses, kapag isang araw lang na delay sa pagkuha ng permit, sarado na,” he said, referencing to the continuing operation of the Porac POGO despite the non-renewal of its business permit in January this year.
Romero likewise expressed aghast upon learning that the Porac POGO only paid P4,000 and P10,000 in annual business and real property taxes despute operating in 47 buildings. In contrast, he said, a business firm in Arayat town, comprising a single building was made to pay, after proper assessment, over P25 million “with discounts pa yun.”
Lapses, if not negligence, on the part of the different offices of the Porac local government unit were noted in the hearing presided by board member Atty. Ananias “Jun” Canlas, notably the failure of the LGU to monitor the operations of the POGO despite its being in the “negative list” and non-renewal of its business permit, the low assessment of taxes the POGO paid, as well as its “continuing violations of environmental laws.”
Vice Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda who joined the committee hearing found “incredulous” Porac Mayor Jaime “Jing” Capil claim that he was prevented access to the POGO site when he went there for an inspection, this even as the Environment Management Bureau was able to enter the site for inspection at an earlier date.
“Mayor ka, hindi ka makapasok sa nasasakupan mo para ipatupad ang batas? Di ba dapat lang nag-report ka sa mga nakakataas tungkol sa situwasyon para nagawan ito ng paraan,” she told Capil.
The hearing ended with a call for another hearing where the registered landowner of the Porac POGO site will be invited, along with other agencies concerned with trade, environment, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.
PamCham statement
Earlier, the PamCham issued its statement calling for a ban on POGOs, to wit:
THE RECENT discovery of a POGO facility in Porac, Pampanga, purported to be larger and more expansive than the previously identified operation in Bamban, raises grave concerns for the local business community.
Negative Impact on the Economy
While POGO operations may provide short-term economic benefits, such as employment opportunities and rental income, these benefits are substantially overshadowed by the long-term negative effects on the local economy and society.
Minimal Economic Contribution
POGO operations contribute insignificantly to the local economy compared to legitimate businesses. They often operate in a gray area, providing limited tax revenues and minimal direct benefits to the broader economy.
According to reports, the tax contributions from POGOs are negligible relative to the scale of their operations and the resources they consume.
Negative Impression on Business and Investments
The presence of a significant POGO operation in Porac also tarnishes the region’s reputation as a safe and viable destination for legitimate business and investments.
Perception of Increased Crime
Large POGO operations are often associated with illegal activities, including human trafficking, money laundering, and other criminal acts. This perception can deter potential investors who are wary of operating in a region associated with such activities.
Negative Publicity
Media coverage of large POGO operations and their associated issues can lead to negative publicity. This can harm the image of Pampanga as a business-friendly environment, affecting investor confidence and long-term investment prospects.
Strain on Public Services
The influx of POGO workers, many of whom are foreign nationals, can strain local public services such as healthcare, law enforcement, and housing. This can lead to public dissatisfaction and a decline in the quality of life for local residents.
Business Security Concerns
The operation of POGOs can create a negative impression regarding business security, particularly if there is perceived or actual condonation by local chief executives and law enforcement agencies. This undermines trust in local governance and law enforcement, further deterring legitimate businesses and investors from entering the region.
Strengthening Regulations and Enforcement
In the interim, PamCham urges stricter regulations and more robust enforcement against illegal POGO activities to mitigate their negative impacts.
Promotion of Sustainable and Legitimate Businesses
Authorities should focus on promoting sustainable and legitimate business opportunities that contribute positively to the local economy and society, ensuring long-term economic stability and growth.
The Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham) urges local authorities and the national government to take decisive action against the proliferation of POGO operations in the region.
The minimal economic contributions from these operations do not justify the significant negative impacts on the economy, the community, and the region’s reputation as a prime destination for legitimate business and investment.
PamCham remains committed to fostering a business environment that is safe, stable, and conducive to sustainable countryside economic growth. Punto News Team
