(ECNS) -- Chinese citizens have been advised not to gamble in the Philippines to ensure their personal safety is not exposed to illegal violence by local loan sharks.
The Philippines hosts both legal and illegal casinos, the Chinese embassy in the country warned. Filipino gambling "agents" not only lure customers into casinos, but also offer loans. Multiple Chinese citizens have fallen for the trick and got themselves deeply in debt.
According to Filipino law, casinos are entitled to pursue debts. Gamblers could be faced with charges while they may no longer be free to leave the country. In Cagayan in the northern Philippines, some casinos even illegally detain customers, forcing them to pay their debts.
The Embassy of China in the Philippines has therefore warned Chinese citizens about gambling whilst in the country. Should they be detained or threatened, they are encouraged to call the Philippine police for help, or to contact the Chinese embassy or consulate.
