Makati suspends applications for permits for POGO service providers

MANILA, Philippines — Makati has temporarily suspended accepting applications for business permits to service providers of Philippine offshore gaming operators, Mayor Abby Binay announced Sunday.

Binay is quoted in a tweet report by The STAR as saying the city will also "crack down hard against illegal activities that are catering to POGOs and their employees within Makati."

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The announcement comes shortly after a police raid on a hotel on Makati Avenue that was allegedly being used as a front for prostitution. Police rescued 35 women, believed to be sex workers, in the raid on Maxx Hotel in October.

According to reports, police also arrested 21 clients during the raid who were believed to be working in the POGO sector.

The National Bureau of Investigation raided a karaoke bar in Makati in September and rescued 91 Chinese women and four Filipinas.

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China has asked the Philippines to ban POGOs, which primarily cater to Chinese clients, saying gambling is illegal for Chinese nationals even when done online.