Gold99 | In a recent disclosure, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has initiated a thorough evaluation of Alien Employment Permits (AEPs). As reported by the Philippine News Agency, the examination encompasses over 42,000 expatriate workers engaged in the Philippine Online Gaming Operator (POGO) industry.
Labor Undersecretary Benjo Benavidez, in a press briefing, emphasized the department’s commitment to address any potential involvement of foreign employees in illicit undertakings. The repercussions for such actions may range from the annulment or withdrawal of AEPs to, in certain instances, legal consequences leading to imprisonment.
Gold99 | Taxing Government Resources: POGOs Under Scrutiny
Gold99 | The recent directive from the Senate urging a comprehensive review of Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) issued to foreigners working in Philippine Online Gaming Operators (POGOs) has highlighted the strain on government resources. This call for scrutiny comes in the aftermath of recent raids on POGO establishments in Parañaque City and Pasay City.
The AEP, akin to a work visa in the U.S., is a pivotal permit granted to nonresident individuals or foreign nationals seeking employment in the Philippines. It is a prerequisite for legal work in the country.
The raids exposed operational deficiencies, along with accusations of involvement in illicit activities such as sex trafficking and operating online scams. Furthermore, there were indications that some workers might have acquired AEPs or other permits illegally. This revelation raises the potential for criminal charges against government officials responsible for approving these permits.
In several instances, the unauthorized issuance of AEPs facilitated the acquisition of Philippine passports for as little as PHP500,000 (US$9,020). Consequently, there is a concern that a significant number of current passport holders may be foreign nationals with links to criminal activities who were not adequately vetted.
For some legislators, this poses a serious threat to the national security of the Philippines.
Escalation of POGO-Linked Crime Continues
Despite the Philippines’ persistent efforts to eliminate illegal and scandalous gaming operators and enhance its reputation, significant issues persist. Recent incidents underscore the challenges the country faces.
Approximately a week ago, a disturbing event unfolded in Pampanga involving international workers, resulting in the loss of two lives and severe gunshot wounds to another individual. The deceased individuals were from China and Malaysia, while the injured party, also from China, miraculously survived despite sustaining five gunshot wounds.
Authorities are probing the incident, linking it to a potential kidnapping attempt connected to POGO activities. Two more individuals were reportedly with the victims, but their current whereabouts remain unknown.
Over the weekend, law enforcement apprehended five individuals suspected of working for an illicit POGO operation. The National Bureau of Investigation reported that among them were four adults and a minor. The minor was found carrying a firearm, later revealing that he was coerced by the adults to carry the weapon in an attempt to evade harsher penalties.
