President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. made a bold announcement during his third State of the Nation Address (SONA), declaring a complete ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). This decision was prompted by a series of controversies surrounding the sector, including financial scams and violent crimes, which have led to widespread calls for action.
In his address, President Marcos outlined various crimes associated with POGOs, such as money laundering, human trafficking, and even murder. He emphasized the need to put an end to the chaos caused by these activities, stating that it is essential to protect society and uphold the country’s integrity. The announcement was met with strong support from the audience, reflecting the growing concerns about the offshore gaming industry.
Key economic figures, including Finance Secretary Ralph Recto and NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, have expressed their support for the ban. They highlighted the minimal economic contributions of POGOs, which do not justify the significant social and reputational harm they bring. Balisacan also pointed out the potential risks of regulation by China on cross-border tourism, underscoring the importance of mitigating broader economic repercussions.
Following the President’s directive, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) has been tasked with shutting down all POGO operations by the end of the year. The Department of Labor and Employment is also working to provide assistance to the approximately 40,000 workers who will be affected by this decision. Legislative leaders, led by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, have committed to implementing the necessary legislative changes to enforce the ban effectively.
The push for a POGO ban gained momentum due to several high-profile incidents, such as raids on illegal activities conducted by companies like CGC Technologies. These incidents shed light on the industry’s involvement in serious offenses, prompting Congress to investigate further and advocate for a complete shutdown.
The decision to ban POGOs marks a significant policy shift towards prioritizing societal well-being and national security over questionable economic gains. As the country moves forward, the focus is expected to shift towards strengthening industries that offer sustainable and ethical contributions to the economy and society.