The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) announced on Sunday that all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) must cease operations, as their licenses were officially revoked effective December 15, 2024.
PAOCC executive director Gilbert Cruz affirmed that the agency, in collaboration with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), will closely monitor compliance.
“By January, there should be no more POGOs, Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs), or businesses claiming to be licensed BPOs tied to offshore gaming. These will no longer be allowed,” Cruz said in an interview with Super Radyo dzBB.
Government’s Firm Stance
The crackdown aligns with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s policy, announced during his third State of the Nation Address in July, to ban all POGOs following their involvement in crimes such as human trafficking, illegal detention, and financial scams.
In November, the President issued Executive Order No. 74, which prohibits:
- Illegal offshore gaming operations
- License applications and renewals
- Operations of existing POGOs
Monitoring and Inspections
The PAOCC plans to inspect sites reported to have shut down to ensure compliance.
“We don’t want operators to deceive us by claiming closure while still operating in secret,” Cruz said. He added that their team would begin inspections, including a visit to a major POGO hub on Tuesday.
Visa Adjustments and Deportations
By October 15, over 21,000 foreign POGO workers applied for visa downgrades as part of the government’s mandate, with those failing to comply facing deportation.
A National Crackdown
Cruz emphasized that authorities would launch smaller-scale operations against remaining illegal POGO activities. “By January, we’ll ensure full enforcement of the ban,” he assured.
The move underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing organized crime and ensuring the country’s gaming industry operates within legal and ethical boundaries.