(UPDATES) THE Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) said it is ready to provide assistance to the estimated 22,000 Filipino workers affected by the government's crackdown on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).

Labor Secretary Bievenido Laguesma said on Thursday that the majority of Filipino POGO workers were employed by Metro Manila-based overseas internet gaming corporations accredited by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.

"So if ever they would be separated from their company, we can facilitate their employment to a projected employer. Bottom line is we wanted to ensure that workers that would be affected (if POGOs were totally banned) would be given assistance and guidance by the DoLE," he added.

Laguesma said licensed POGO operators were no more than 50 after Pagcor decided not to renew the permits of around 250 internet gaming outlets.

Meanwhile, the Association of General and Flag Officers said on Thursday that it was in favor of a nationwide POGO ban.

"They (POGOs) seriously pose a security risk to the fabric of society and greatly undermine government efforts to curb corruption," Vice Admiral Emilio Marayag said.

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