Gov’t allows POGOs to partially reopen
Two to three Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators or POGOs have packed up their operations here to relocate abroad amid alleged racism towards Chinese workers, according to Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation chair Andrea Domingo.
Domingo said the local bias against POGO employees has proved costly, taking away much-needed revenues and jobs for Filipinos.
“Napaka-racist. In fact we are losing some business. May mga operators, nag-signify na magsasara na dito at pupunta sa ibang jurisdiction na hindi masyadong racist ang mga tao [It’s very racist. In fact, we are losing some business. There are operators who have signified that they will close down here and transfer to a different jurisdiction where the people aren’t that racist],” Domingo told CNN Philippines when asked if the government actively favors Chinese workers.
Read: Racism vs Chinese workers prompt some POGO firms to leave PH – Pagcor
The government’s COVID-19 task force has allowed Philippine offshore gaming operators or POGOs to resume partial operations, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed on Friday.
Roque said online gambling services are part of the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, which are allowed to open under the new quarantine rules. A skeleton workforce, or only 30 percent of the total number of employees, are allowed to report for work.
“Ang BPOs po ay ina-allow. Ang POGO po talaga ay BPO,” he said in a media briefing.
Read: Gov’t allows POGOs to partially reopen amid community quarantine
Related: The Coronaconomy Battle
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Racism vs Chinese POGO Workers
