Lawmakers push for POGO ban, citing social issues and security concerns

Two lawmakers from the House of Representatives, Rep. Robert Ace Barbers and Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, have called for a total ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs) due to their negative impact on society.

ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro has filed House Bill No. 10525 or the proposed Anti-Pogo Act of 2024, which seeks to revoke all licenses granted to POGOs and criminalize future operations by imposing imprisonment for up to 10 years.

House human rights panel chairperson Benny Abante advocates a complete ban on POGOs due to concerns over national security and social issues, while House ways and means panel chairperson Joey Salceda supports weeding out delinquent operators rather than an outright ban.

Salceda argues that the POGO industry generates significant revenue for the government and employs around 25,000 Filipinos, with only a small number of direct Chinese hires.

Another bill banning POGOs was filed following the discovery of a large POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga, adding to calls for stricter regulation or complete prohibition.