Escudero calls for review of PIGO licenses

Senate President Francis 'Chiz' Escudero is calling for a cost-benefit analysis of Philippine Inland Gaming Operators (PIGOs) licenses issued by Pagcor.

Escudero expressed concern that PIGO operations may have similar negative impacts as Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), including addiction and financial loss, with Filipinos being the ones affected.

He warned that former POGO operators might be rebranding as PIGOs to continue their operations under a different guise.

Escudero urged Pagcor to conduct a thorough review of PIGO benefits and risks, questioning if the revenue generated is worth the potential harm to Filipino citizens, especially those with low incomes.

President Marcos previously banned e-sabong and announced plans to ban all POGOs by December 2024 due to their negative impacts, indicating growing awareness of gambling's harmful effects.