Newly appointed Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla vowed to personally shut down Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) still operating in the country by the end of 2024, starting with those on Island Cove in Cavite.
In an interview during Dos Por Dos on Thursday, Remulla emphasized that he will begin with his area, as this is the issue being raised against him.
The 36-hectare resort, located in Kawit, Cavite, was formerly owned by the Remulla family. Remulla clarified that he no longer has any connection with Island Cove since it was sold in 2018.
"Syempre uumpisahan ko sa sariling bakuran, 'yan naman ang ginagawang issue sa akin. Ipapakita natin na sincere tayo," said Remulla.
The new interior and local government secretary said he will ensure that the POGO hub will cease operations, clearing out all aliens and computer equipment from the hub.
Those aliens with working visas, according to Remulla, should be removed from the site as they have 'no reason to be there'.
"Kung hindi residence permit ang nakuha nila at working visa lang, tuluyan na naming papauwiin," he added.
Remulla noted that the POGO hub was given until December 15 to operate.
Island Cove is owned by businessman Kim Wong and has been recognized by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission as the largest POGO hub in the country.
In contrast, the closed POGO hub operated by Zun Yuan Technology Inc. in Bamban, Tarlac, consisted of 32 buildings spread across a 10-hectare property, while Lucky South 99 in Porac, Pampanga, had 46 buildings on a similarly sized 10-hectare site.
