Pasay shuts down POGO sex dens

MANILA, Philippines — The Pasay City government on Wednesday ordered the closure of a Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGO) hub that was raided recently for allegedly having prostitution dens.

The city’s business permit and licensing office revoked the license of Smart Web Technology, the new business name used by two unlicensed POGOs.

According to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), the licenses of Xushen Technology Corp. and Freego Computer Gaming OPC were revoked by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.

The two POGOs obtained a temporary internet gaming license under Smart Web Technology, which was the name registered with Pasay’s licensing office.

Officials from the city government handed the closure order to security guards in the building.

Multiple closure orders were also posted on the gates surrounding the POGO hub.

The POGO hub was raided by personnel of the PAOCC, Department of Justice and Philippine National Police on Oct. 27.

During the raid, authorities rescued more than 700 Filipinos and foreigners who are suspected victims of human trafficking.

The raiding team also discovered aquarium-style viewing chambers, a torture chamber and massage parlors used for prostitution.

The PAOCC said five Chinese and a Filipino underwent inquest proceedings on charges of human trafficking and torture.