Manila: The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) announced that all licensed Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) have been shut down, yet illegal gambling networks continue to operate.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a Senate hearing, Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros questioned PAGCOR officials about the enforcement of the POGO ban as ordered by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in his 2024 State of the Nation Address. PAGCOR assistant vice president Jessa Fernandez reported that since July 22, 2024, the agency has ceased issuing and renewing internet gaming licenses. By December 31, all 42 licenses and 18 authorized service providers were fully canceled, and 304 operating sites nationwide were closed.
Fernandez added that PAGCOR continues to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and local government units (LGUs) to ensure that the establishments remain closed. Despite the official closure of POGO operations, PAGCOR senior vice president Raul Villanueva admitted that some operators have splintered into smaller illegal groups, establishing operations within residential subdivisions and urban peripheries.
Villanueva explained that these operators have moved into smaller groups operating in residential areas, which creates challenges for inspections. Unlike before, when PAGCOR could inspect sites at any hour, they now face restrictions and require coordination with LGUs, business permits offices, and building administrators.
Hontiveros also raised concerns about Philippine Inland Gaming Operators (PIGOs), questioning whether former POGO operators are shifting to PIGO licenses. PAGCOR reported that 61 PIGO licenses have been issued and committed to submitting the full list to the Senate committee. PIGOs, which include casinos and online games, offer the same types of gambling but cater to Filipino clients.
To prevent PIGOs from facing POGO-related issues, Fernandez stated that PAGCOR is enhancing responsible gaming programs, including potential artificial intelligence (AI) monitoring of gambling behavior. Hontiveros welcomed the efforts but advised caution against implementing AI monitoring without established protocols, emphasizing the need for stronger coordination between PAGCOR, law enforcement agencies, and LGUs.
