China Commends Philippine President's Ban on Online Gambling Operations

MANILA, Philippines — In a notable shift in diplomatic tone, China has praised Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his recent ban on Chinese-operated online gaming operations, which have been linked to various criminal activities. Marcos's decision, announced during his state-of-the-nation address, targets over 400 online gambling outfits that employ thousands of Chinese and Southeast Asian nationals. The president cited serious concerns, including financial scams, human trafficking, and even murder, as justifications for the ban. The relationship between China and the Philippines has been tense under Marcos, particularly following the expansion of U.S. military presence in the country and rising hostilities in the South China Sea. However, the Chinese Embassy in Manila welcomed the ban, emphasizing its commitment to law enforcement cooperation with the Philippines. An unnamed spokesperson stated that China prohibits all forms of gambling and has been actively cracking down on its citizens involved in overseas gambling operations, including the controversial Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO). Marcos has made it clear that the operations of POGO must cease, with Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin reiterating the administration's firm stance against these gambling entities. The president has instructed the government’s gaming agency to dismantle these operations by the end of the year and has called on labor officials to assist displaced Filipino workers in finding alternative employment. The Philippines, a long-standing ally of the U.S. in Asia, navigates a complex relationship with China, balancing significant trade ties and cooperation against crime while managing the legacy of former President Rodrigo Duterte's closer ties with Beijing.