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Senators back measures removing Pogo industry from PH soil for good
The Philippine Senate is discussing a bill to permanently ban Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) at the plenary stage.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian sponsored Senate Bill 2868, the "Anti-POGO Act of 2024," which aims to completely eradicate POGO operations.
The proposed legislation aligns with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s executive order and targets a prohibition date of January 1, 2025.
The Anti-POGO Act of 2024 includes strict prohibitions against the establishment, operation, and any form of aiding POGO activities within the Philippines.
Senator Gatchalian highlighted that the economic and social costs of POGOs significantly outweigh their benefits.
He cited a July 2024 position from the Department of Finance stating that the annual net cost of allowing POGOs to operate in 2023 was P99.52 billion.
Gatchalian warned that Filipinos would ultimately bear the cost if POGOs continue to operate in the country.
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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed government agencies to intensify efforts against illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
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Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that the total closure of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos) by December 31, 2024, will have no significant impact on the Philippine economy.
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The Philippine government is set to be POGO-free by 2025, with all licenses being canceled starting December 15, 2024, as directed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
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