Key Takeaways:
- The expansion of gambling in the Philippines has led to serious social and security issues, confirming initial concerns.
- The introduction of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) has been linked to a rise in crime, including human trafficking and money laundering.
- Efforts to regulate gambling facilities, inspired by models like Singapore’s, are crucial to mitigate these negative impacts.
Gambling in the Philippines has long been a contentious issue, but recent developments have starkly highlighted the dire consequences of the industry's unchecked expansion. From the tragic incident at Resorts World Manila to the problematic rise of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), the costs of gambling have never been more apparent. These events not only underline the potential for gambling venues to become hotbeds of crime but also expose the broader social and national security risks that accompany the gambling industry.
In 2016, the Duterte Administration's aggressive push for POGOs brought a new dimension of risk, drawing connections to money laundering activities and a disturbing rise in human trafficking and prostitution rings. Investigations into these operations have revealed a grim reality of exploitation, with Senator Risa Hontiveros likening the situation to a commodification of trafficked women. This prioritization of revenue over social welfare is a troubling trend, with gambling establishments linked to a myriad of social issues, including addiction and the erosion of community values.
The raids on POGO facilities in Bamban, Tarlac, and Porac, Pampanga, further illustrate the intertwined nature of gambling with organized crime and fraud. The rescue operations at these facilities and the subsequent actions taken against illegal workers highlight the dark underbelly of the gambling operations and their connection to criminal elements. Despite gambling being prohibited in China, the proliferation of POGOs on Philippine soil continues to invite criminal activities, posing substantial harm to communities.
Moreover, the issue of national security has been brought into sharp focus with Senator Hontiveros's investigation into the citizenship and potential connections of certain individuals with POGO operations. The proliferation of fake identification documents and alleged hacking and surveillance activities underscore the serious national security threats posed by POGOs. The contrast between the government's envisioned financial windfall from POGOs and the grim realities on the ground should serve as a wake-up call for gambling regulators.
The recent announcement by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., banning POGOs is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to regulate mainstream gambling facilities. Taking cues from Singapore's restrictive measures, such as banning ATMs in casinos and charging entry fees, could help protect citizens from gambling's harms.
As the Philippines moves forward, it's imperative to reconsider the expansion of gambling within the country. The evidence is clear: the social and national security costs far outweigh the promised economic benefits. Policies that protect and uplift our sovereignty, families, and communities should be championed, prioritizing the well-being and moral fiber of our citizens in a growing economy. It's time for a concerted effort to reevaluate the national stance on gambling, fostering an environment that promotes the welfare of the next generation, not one that gambles it away.
This article reflects the personal opinion of the author and does not reflect the official stand of the Management Association of the Philippines.
Dr. Benito L. Teehankee is chairman of the MAP Shared Prosperity Committee and a full professor of management and organization at De La Salle University.
