PAOCC keeps eyes peeled on underground ops
The total ban on all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) took effect Wednesday, January 1, 2025, following an order from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that mandated the complete cessation of offshore gaming operations in the country by the end of 2024.
The decision, announced as part of a broader campaign to address associated crimes and economic issues, includes directives for law enforcement agencies to dismantle all illegal POGO operations.
Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, Executive Director of the Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), assured the public of heightened efforts targeting small-scale POGO operations that continue to evade detection.
“These small-scale POGO setups often choose densely populated areas frequented by foreign nationals to avoid detection,” Cruz explained in an interview with Radyo 630.
“With the new year underway, we’re focusing on dismantling these illegal operations,” he added.
Cruz also cited the issue of nearly 8,000 foreign workers previously employed by POGOs, who downgraded their work visas to tourist visas but remained in the Philippines. Many of them are suspected to be involved in underground POGO activities.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and PAOCC warned that without robust enforcement, as many as 100 illegal POGO operations could persist into 2025.
President Marcos directed the DILG, PAOCC and other agencies to ensure full compliance with the executive order and to hold violators accountable.
Previously, Mr. Marcos signed Executive Order No. 74, which mandated a complete shutdown of POGO operations by December 31, 2024
He emphasized that the ban is aimed at mitigating the rise of criminal activities linked to POGOs, including human trafficking, money laundering, and tax evasion.
According to the EO, POGOs and related offshore gaming entities will be 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.
Additionally, he noted the adverse effects of these operations on the country’s international reputation and economic stability.
