Manila Bulletin
PAOCC to go after small-scale POGOs this 2025
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) will focus on apprehending small-scale Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in 2025 following the lapse of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s ban on their operations.
PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz noted that while most POGO hubs ceased operations after the President's announcement, some have transitioned to smaller-scale activities.
Cruz stated that PAOCC is monitoring these emerging small-scale POGOs, which are often located in areas frequented by foreigners to evade detection.
He mentioned that President Marcos Jr. has tasked PAOCC to pursue these remaining POGOs and to collaborate with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and other agencies.
Indicators of these illegal operations include a sudden increase in foreigners, new internet connections, and frequent food deliveries to a specific location.
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Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is urging the government to continue efforts to eliminate Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and their associated criminal activities, even after the December 31st deadline.
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Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla warned foreign POGO workers who have not submitted to authorities to face legal consequences, including permanent blacklisting by immigration.
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The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) will initiate proceedings to cancel fraudulent birth certificates and seize assets, including real properties, belonging to foreign nationals linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
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