The Philippine gaming regulator, PAGCOR, has reaffirmed its regulatory oversight of the Freeport Area of Bataan, countering recent remarks by one of its officials suggesting otherwise.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) addressed comments made by Joseph Lobo, a senior official in its Offshore Gaming Licensing Department, who claimed last week that the agency lacked authority over a suspected POGO operator in Bataan, identifying the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) as the governing body.
PAGCOR clarified that it ‘seeks to rectify this statement,’ emphasizing its jurisdiction:
‘Republic Act No. 9728 grants the AFAB the power to oversee certain tourism-related activities within the Freeport Area of Bataan, including games, amusements, recreational and sports activities, subject to the approval and supervision of PAGCOR.’
‘This underscores the fact that while AFAB may regulate specific activities and exercise authority within its jurisdiction, its power to issue licenses for gaming operations remains conditional and subject to PAGCOR’s oversight and approval.’
This clarification follows a raid by law enforcement last month on Central One Bataan’s facility in the Freeport Area amid suspicions of human trafficking and other violations.
During a press briefing last week, Central One refuted claims of being a POGO operator, condemning the raid as unlawful, and asserting that it operates legally under the AFAB’s framework. A company representative also indicated that, while the group held a gaming license, it was “never used”.
In its statement, PAGCOR emphasized that offshore gaming companies misrepresenting themselves as business process outsourcing (BPO) firms pose a significant concern.
To combat illegal gaming operations effectively, PAGCOR stressed the need for thorough scrutiny and accountability for companies that misuse the BPO designation.
