Photo credit: Risa Hontiveros

Senator Risa Hontiveros is turning up the heat as the December 31 deadline for the total ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) looms closer. In her recent statement, Hontiveros emphasized the importance of uncovering the masterminds behind the illegal activities linked to POGOs, saying, "Sa paparating na hearing next week, dapat matumbok na kung sino talaga ang nasa likod ng mga kriminalidad sa POGO."

When asked about the possibility of "big fish" like Alice Guo still running these operations, Hontiveros was direct: "Magandang tanong yan, at yan yung isa sa mga gusto naming maisara, matali, mabuhol na loose end." She highlighted that these aren’t just isolated cases but interconnected hubs operating like a web.

Hontiveros explained that during the last hearing, connections between various POGO hubs in Bamban, Porac, and Cebu became evident. She noted links between workers rescued in Porac who were later found again in Cebu, suggesting a larger, organized network at play. "Itong mga big fish ay patunay na yung mga POGO hubs ay hindi mga stand-alone operations," she added.

The senator made it clear that identifying the “big fish” is still a live question they aim to answer in the upcoming hearing. As the clock ticks towards the total ban, Hontiveros and her team are determined to ensure that all loose ends are tied, and the key players behind these controversial operations are held accountable.