AUTHORITIES led by Interior Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos closed down last Saturday an Angeles City-based Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) establishment where 43 Chinese forced to work at the firm were rescued last week.
During the closure, 40 more Chinese were rescued from Lucky 99 South Outsourcing Inc. located at Fil-Am Friendship Highway in Angeles City, the DILG said in a statement yesterday.
Personnel from the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group, Philippine Amusement Gaming Corp., and barangay officials accompanied Abalos in shutting down the firm.
Abalos said the company has no license to operate in the country.
“How could you operate without (a) license over the past years? That alone, it’s illegal,” Abalos.
While at the establishment, Abalos found 40 more Chinese who were also reportedly being forced to work at the company.
“We will make sure they are documented properly by the Bureau Immigration to prevent them from being victimized again. This is not about being Filipino or Chinese. Every life should be protected, that’s what’s important,” said Abalos.
Last Wednesday, AKG operatives raided the firm and rescued 43 Chinese. The operation was conducted after police received information that POGO workers were being “detained” or not allowed to leave the premises.
A Chinese human resource manager of the firm, Wu Jia Ming, was arrested and presented by Abalos to members of the media at Camp Crame later last Wednesday.
Abalos said the PNP, in coordination with Pagcor and the Securities and Exchange Commission, is exerting efforts to hold accountable the others behind the illegal operation of the POGO firm.
Abalos urged the people to immediately report to the police any information about illegal activities at POGO companies, adding authorities will swiftly act on the report.
“Let us help each other. Do not be scared,” said Abalos.
