MANILA — Senator Risa Hontiveros described President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to stop the operation of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) as a major victory for the whole country.

The president made the announcement in his third State of the Nation Address on July 22.

In a statement sent to the media on Monday, Hontiveros expressed her joy over the termination of POGO operations.

“Bilang tagapangulo ng Senate Committee on Women na nanguna sa imbestigasyon tungkol sa mga krimeng nakakabit sa POGO, hindi ko matatawaran ang saya at ginhawa ng pagpapabawal ng POGO sa bansa,” she expressed, adding, “POGOs have brought innumerable and unspeakable social ills into the country. I commend the President for his resolute pronouncement.”

Hontiveros renewed her vow to bring to justice those responsible for the alleged crimes associated with POGOs.

“Mahalagang umpisa ito sa isang mahabang hakbang para mapanagot ang mga nagpapasok at nagpahintulot sa paglaganap ng mga krimeng dala ng POGO sa ating bansa.”

She also pledged to ensure a just transition for Filipino workers employed in POGOs.

Hontiveros guaranteed the public that Senate hearings will continue to demand accountability. She is also committed to reinforcing policies to prevent the resurgence of industries like POGOs.

“Maraming salamat sa lahat ng mga victim-survivors, whistleblowers, at government agencies na nakipagtulungan sa aming imbestigasyon sa Senado para mabunyag ang kababalaghang nakapalibot sa POGO. We owe you this victory,” Hontiveros expressed, ending with, “And to all POGOs — legal o illegal — goodbye.”

📷 Sen. Risa Hontiveros FB