STD-hit POGO workers worry DoJ

The Department of Justice yesterday raised the alarm on the alleged spread of sexually transmitted diseases among Chinese workers of some Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators.

DoJ spokesperson Atty. Mico Clavano said STDs are reportedly spreading like wildfire among the said foreign workers, hence putting Filipinos' health at great risk.

Clavano hinted prostitution may be at play between foreigners working in the country and trafficked Filipinos.

He said that reports reaching them showed some 15 to 20 Chinese workers have contracted venereal diseases while being allowed unhampered mobility during their stay in the country as employees of one company.

"It is quite sad to say that the DoJ got several reports about the spread of STD. And as for our reports, we don't know the full extent of it yet," Clavano said.

He said the looming cancellation of the visas of illegal POGO workers may stem the spread of STDs within the sector.

Meanwhile, the National Bureau of Investigation is set to submit to the DoJ a preliminary report on its probe pertaining to the alleged involvement of some POGO workers in the commission of crimes like kidnapping and murder.

In a press briefing in Camp Crame, Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said Monday that 297 more POGO workers sought and were given police clearances, bringing to 3,198 the total of POGO workers who had been issued the said documents.

Along with their visa and work permits, the police clearance would allow legitimate POGO workers to be differentiated from those employed by illegal POGO firms.

On the illegal drugs trade, Azurin said the PNP is looking into replicating or adopting the strategies of the anti-communist agency NTFELCAC in addressing the problem at the grassroots level or in the communities.

The PNP chief also backed a lawmaker's suggestion that showbiz workers should subject themselves to drug testing following the arrest of an actor in a buy-bust operation.