Q: President Marcos announced during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) that “effective today (July 22), all POGOs are banned”. The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines for several years has been appealing to the Philippine government to shut down POGOs. What is the embassy’s comment on this? 

A: We have noted President Marcos’ announcement of banning all POGOs and welcome this development. We believe this decision echoes the call of the Philippine people and serves the common interests of people of both countries. The Chinese law prohibits all forms of gambling. The Chinese government strictly cracks down on Chinese citizens engaging in overseas gambling businesses including POGO. POGO breeds serious crimes and gravely undermines the interests of both Philippine and Chinese peoples. In line with this commitment, China is ready to continue its strong law enforcement cooperation with the Philippines and better protect the safety and well-being of the two peoples.