The revocation of licenses for the remaining Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) officially began on Sunday, December 15th.
This announcement was made by Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco last week, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to wind down POGO operations nationwide.
In a Sunday morning interview with local media DZBB, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) Director Gilbert Cruz stated that approximately 20 POGOs are still in operation, based on PAGCOR data.
Cruz confirmed that all POGOs and Internet Gambling Licensees (IGLs) must cease operations by January 1st. He also emphasized that businesses claiming to be licensed business process outsourcing (BPO) companies are no longer permitted. “Those are no longer allowed,” he added.
The PAOCC noted that they would also inspect POGOs that claim to have ceased operations to ensure full compliance with the total ban.
In November, President Marcos signed Executive Order No. 74, which mandates a ban on POGOs and internet gaming licenses. The order covers illegal offshore gaming activities, the suspension of new license applications and renewals, and the discontinuation of existing operations. Marcos initially announced the POGO ban during his third State of the Nation address in July.
In response, various government agencies – including the PAOCC, the Department of Justice, and the Bureau of Immigration – began downgrading the visas of foreign POGO workers starting October 15th. The Bureau of Immigration has reported that over 21,000 foreign workers have applied for visa downgrades.
2,300 POGO workers deported
The Philippine government has deported more than 2,300 foreign workers employed by POGOs, according to the PAOCC.
Gilbert Cruz reported on Friday that most of the deported workers were sent back to China, their country of origin. Some were deported to other countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
Cruz also mentioned that despite the ongoing crackdown, around 200 rogue POGOs are still attempting to operate across the country.
