President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. dismissed any alleged loopholes in the recently signed Executive Order No. 74, which bans Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the country.
President Marcos firmly stated that POGOs cannot continue operations through the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) or its affiliated casinos, emphasizing that the order specifically targets the nature of these operations.
Last week, Marcos issued an immediate ban on all POGOs and related internet-based gaming activities, mandating their shutdown by December 31, 2024.
According to the executive order, POGOs and related offshore gaming entities are required to cease operations and wind down their affairs by the end of the year.
The ban also prohibits any renewal or extension of existing POGO licenses or permits.
The President first announced his intention to implement a ban during his State of the Nation Address in July 2024.
His remarks came in response to concerns raised by Senator Risa Hontiveros, who suggested that certain POGOs might exploit a gap in the executive order, particularly if they were to align with PAGCOR facilities or the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA).
However, President Marcos clarified that the ban applies to all POGOs, regardless of their affiliations or locations, emphasizing that any operation with a POGO license is prohibited.
“As long as it’s said – as long as it’s a POGO, as long as that’s their license, it’s banned,” he stated.
He further dismissed the need for any separate legislation to close alleged loopholes, asserting that the executive order provides adequate authority to enforce the ban comprehensively.
