President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. orders immediate ban on POGOs

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed Executive Order No. 74, imposing an immediate ban on all offshore and internet gaming operations in the Philippines. The order highlights that the economic benefits of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) are vastly outweighed by their associated risks, including rising crime rates and exploitation of vulnerable individuals. The ban encompasses POGOs and all related ancillary services, with operations mandated to cease by December 31, 2024.

To manage the transition, the government will establish Technical Working Groups (TWGs) to develop and implement strategies for affected sectors. These include a TWG focused on employment recovery aimed at supporting workers displaced by the ban. Additionally, law enforcement agencies, such as the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, have been directed to increase their efforts against illegal offshore gaming operations and related services.

Additional government departments have also been tasked to ensure compliance. The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development will work with homeowners’ associations to prevent the spread of gaming operations in residential areas. Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism is set to monitor tourism establishments to ensure are not used for gaming operations. What do you think of this development? Follow Infipay for more industry updates.