Makati shuts down gaming firm

MANILA, Philippines - The city government of Makati shut down an online gaming firm, whose owner was arrested last October, for operating without a business permit, Mayor Abby Binay said yesterday.

Hao Ying Solutions, Inc. was closed down Thursday after it failed to present a valid business permit during an inspection by the Business Permits Office (BPO) personnel, she said.

Binay said the firm was first registered in 2011 and was renewed last January.

Zhang Hai Long, the firm’s owner, was arrested along with 60 of the firm’s employees for allegedly conducting illegal online gambling.

Zhang was also reportedly caught in possession of illegal drugs.

Police said the 60 employees could only present tourist visas.

Meanwhile, the city government closed down 117 business establishments for failure to present business permits since July.