Philippines, Feb. 26 -- Senators on Wednesday linked the recent kidnapping of a foreign student from an international school to the continued presence of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), warning that the industry remains a major driver of criminal activity in the country.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, a staunch advocate for banning POGOs, condemned the incident and stressed that authorities must relentlessly pursue the perpetrators.

"I reiterate my call for the critical and urgent need to wipe out POGOs once and for all. We cannot and must not allow their criminal operations to continue spreading fear, lawlessness, and danger in our communities," he added.

The lawmaker also lauded law enforcement authorities for the rescue o...