Philippines intensifies crackdown on illegal gamers

Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos on December 12 ordered the police and law enforcement agencies to intensify the crackdown on illegal gaming and cyber cam hubs that continue to operate despite the ban, which will take effect by the end of December, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said.

Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos on December 12 ordered the police and law enforcement agencies to intensify the crackdown on illegal gaming and cyber cam hubs that continue to operate despite the ban, which will take effect by the end of December, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said.

Illustrative photo (Photo: benarnews.org)
Illustrative photo (Photo: benarnews.org)

The order came after the President said on December 11 that the permits and licenses of all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) had already been canceled and warned that those attempting to continue operating illegally would be meted out with the full force of the law.

Philippine authorities have raided suspected POGO hubs near the capital in recent months after Marcos ordered the ban in July.

However, many gamers regrouped into small groups and set up clandestine hubs in other areas, including in Metro Manila and the central Philippines, to continue committing internet-based crimes.

Early this month, the Philippines' Bureau of Immigration reminded foreign workers employed by POGO to comply with the government-mandated deadline to leave the country by the end of the year.

Parliaments

Malaysia prioritises digital, AI education
Parliaments

Malaysia prioritises digital, AI education

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the critical role of digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the nation's future, emphasising the necessity for students to acquire proficiency in these fields from an early stage.

Vietnam-China trade poised for new heights
Parliaments

Vietnam-China trade poised for new heights

Bilateral business relations have witnessed remarkable progress, especially in recent years, with Vietnam introducing key national strategies such as the National Green Growth Strategy for 2021-2030, vision towards 2050; the National Strategy on R&D and Application of Artificial Intelligence; and the National Strategy for 4th Industrial Revolution.

Thailand revises tourism strategy after earthquake
Parliaments

Thailand revises tourism strategy after earthquake

Minister of Tourism and Sports Sorawong Thienthong said that a tourism risk and crisis management team will be established to support the industry, with representatives from organisations in the tourism supply chain, such as the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Roads Authority.

Laos aims for sustainable infrastructure development
Parliaments

Laos aims for sustainable infrastructure development

Laos' Enabling Environment Roadmap for Infrastructure Asset Management (IAM EE) outlines strategies for the effective management of public infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals, with a focus on resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Cambodia strengthens cross-border crime control
Parliaments

Cambodia strengthens cross-border crime control

In 2024, Cambodia cracked down 197 cases relating to human trafficking and sexual exploitation, an increase of over 20% compared to the previous year. The authorities identified 523 victims and arrested 273 suspects and sent them to court, including 30 foreigners.

Indonesia rolls out people's schools initiative
Parliaments

Indonesia rolls out people's schools initiative

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has identified over 200 potential sites for the establishment of people’s schools (Sekolah Rakyat), a programme designed to provide free, quality education to children from economically disadvantaged families.