Good morning. A top senator in the Philippines is warning that the ban on offshore gaming operators (POGOs) will cause companies to ‘rebrand‘, finding a loophole to continue operations. The worries are valid, particularly after a recent raid on a POGO hub in Cebu, which showcased how operators can fluidly shift to new locations and formats to continue illicit practices. Meanwhile, in Thailand, concerns have been raised about how legalized casinos could impact law enforcement, with an academic calling for reform before implementation.
What you need to know
- Philippine Senator expresses concern over the potential rebranding of banned POGOs, calling such tactics deceptive and unacceptable.
- Police reform crucial before legalizing casinos, access to gaming should be restricted for Thai locals, says academic.
- Alice Guo has reportedly been arrested in Indonesia, with confirmation from the Philippines’ Department of Justice and National Bureau of Investigation.
On the radar
- CNMI government opposes IPI’s asset sale citing creditors’ interests.
- Cebu expands monitoring of e-games and entertainment hubs for illegal POGOs.
- Foreign visitors boost Jeju Dream Tower casino sales by 84% in August.
- Macau Airport sees growth in traffic during summer, announces upgrades.
AGB Intelligence
PHILIPPINES
Senator raises concerns over “rebranding” of POGOs
The move to ban offshore gaming operators in the Philippines has already caused many repercussions, but a top Philippine senator is now warning of the way that such operations could effectively “rebrand”, and continue to conduct business. The recent raid on a POGO hub in Cebu has highlighted the concern about companies’ fluidity, as well as that of its workers – oftentimes transitioning from one illicit operation to the next.
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