Senator Lito Lapid Denies Involvement in POGO Operations in Porac

On Wednesday, June 26, Senator Manuel “Lito” Lapid firmly denied any involvement in the operations of Lucky South 99 Outsourcing, the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub located in Porac, Pampanga. Appearing before the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, Lapid addressed allegations made by an unnamed vlogger that he owns the 10-hectare land where the POGO facility operates.

Allegations and Denial

The POGO hub in Porac comprises at least 42 buildings and recently came under scrutiny when authorities raided the compound, uncovering human trafficking and other illegal activities. During the Senate hearing, Lapid categorically denied any connection to the POGO operations, emphasizing his willingness to resign if any evidence to the contrary were found.

"I will resign as a senator if it is proven that I am involved in that POGO. I will not allow my name to be tarnished here. I’ve been a vice governor of Pampanga for three years, I have been a senator for three terms…I won’t allow my name to be ruined here," Lapid asserted before the Senate panel.

Defense and Concerns

Senator Lapid also rejected the notion that former House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is a protector of POGOs in Pampanga. He expressed his concern that such allegations negatively impact the reputation of Pampanga, discouraging potential investors.

Addressing Porac Mayor Jaime Pilapil, Lapid urged the local chief executive to take action to resolve the issue and restore the province's image. "That’s what we are worried about. Investors in Porac are already starting…but these problems with POGOs are hounding us. Our reputation with investors has turned negative, mayor," he lamented.

Senator Lapid concluded his remarks by appealing to Mayor Pilapil to take decisive steps to cleanse Porac of the problematic POGOs. "That’s why I urge you, mayor, to cleanse Porac of these POGOs," Lapid implored.

Senator Lito Lapid's vehement denial of involvement in the POGO operations in Porac and his call for local authorities to address the issue highlights the broader concerns regarding the impact of illegal activities associated with POGOs on the community and its investment climate. The senator's commitment to clearing his name and safeguarding the reputation of Pampanga underscores the importance of integrity and proactive governance in addressing such challenges.