PBBM orders nationwide ban on POGOs

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has issued Executive Order No. 74, mandating the immediate nationwide ban on all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

The EO cites concerns that POGOs have ventured into illicit areas such as scamming and human trafficking, with studies indicating that the risks outweigh the benefits.

Operators with existing licenses are expected to cease operations by December 31, 2024.

Malacañang has ordered the Cagayan Special Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) to enforce the ban, despite CEZA Administrator Katrina Ponce Enrile differentiating CEZA's "iGaming" operations from POGOs.

Two Technical Working Groups (TWGs) have been established to enforce the ban and develop strategies for affected sectors, including reintegrating displaced Filipino workers.

Senator Risa Hontiveros stated that while the EO is welcome, a law is still needed to make the ban clear and comprehensive, pointing out potential loopholes.

Hontiveros noted that the EO excludes online games of chance conducted in PAGCOR-operated casinos or licensed casinos, which could be interpreted as allowing accredited casinos to host POGOs.

She also mentioned that operations in economic zones like CEZA and Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport (APECO) seem to be exempted as they are not under PAGCOR's supervision.