Manila - Buildings previously utilized by illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) may soon serve government agencies following civil forfeiture proceedings, a top official said on Friday.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a pre-SONA interview on the Bagong Pilipinas show, seized properties from operations against illegal POGOs are being considered for government re-use. "That's possible. The ones we got, let's say in Bamban, were beautiful," Cruz remarked, referring to properties confiscated in raids. He highlighted that at least five raided POGO hubs, along with seized vehicles, are currently undergoing civil and criminal forfeiture in favor of the government.
Cruz provided examples of how these properties are being repurposed. "The one under civil forfeiture in Pasay is being used by the Department of Social Welfare and Development for rescued victims," he stated. Furthermore, some buildings have been converted into detention facilities to address the shortage of jails under the Bureau of Immigration's authority. "We turned one into a jail for those apprehended from POGOs. The Bureau of Immigration lacks jails, so, I said, let's improvise this 6th floor, let's turn it into a jail. Those arrested are detained there now."
The use of confiscated properties falls under Republic Act 1379, which mandates the forfeiture in favor of the state of any property found to have been unlawfully acquired by any public officer or employee, along with provisions for the appropriate proceedings. Cruz also suggested that other suitable properties, such as the raided POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga, could be converted into educational facilities. "These buildings have boarding houses that could be used by students," he explained.
Cruz disclosed that during the previous administration, there were at least 448 POGOs across the country, but only 46 have renewed their licenses with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR). "We are running after 402 illegal POGOs," he said, noting that many use their licenses as a front while engaging in scamming and other illicit activities. He also mentioned that 10 of the 12 POGO hubs recently raided by PAOCC housed foreign workers who are fugitives.