National Economic and Development Authortiy (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan claims that Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) brings more social cost than contributions to the national economy, July 9.

During a Presidential Communications Office press briefing with National Economic and Development Authortiy (NEDA) and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Sec. Balisacan mentioned that the presence of POGO taints the image of the country, not only because of its gambling operations but also due to the issues attached to it.

The secretary highlighted the objective of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. in encouraging investors and tourists to visit the country. With this in mind, it's improper to have a reputation that criminals are in the Philippines because of POGO, he mentioned.

"We are trying to position our country as a legitimate place for business, where [you know] we are trying to attract investors to come, tourists to come. So the least that we want is to have a reputation na nandito yung mga criminals..," Sec. Balisacan said during the press briefing.