Malacañang vows to crack down on illegal POGOs

Malacañang vowed to continue eradicating illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) amid concerns that some remain operational despite a nationwide ban imposed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in December 2024.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro assured the public during a press briefing on Thursday that authorities will intensify efforts to crack down on POGOs operating illegally, emphasizing it is the government's obligation to pursue and take action against these illegal operations.

Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed concern over a new human trafficking 'modus' possibly linked to POGO operations, suggesting that POGO bosses may still be overseeing smaller, guerilla-like operations.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla also said a syndicate of former POGO operators was behind the kidnapping of an international student in Taguig City, with authorities suspecting ties to the victim's family’s involvement in POGOs.

The government will review existing policies, including an exemption for online games of chance regulated by Pagcor, and may revisit the SIM Card Registration Act to determine if further amendments are necessary given the ongoing issues and reports linking POGOs to criminal activities such as money laundering, human trafficking, and cyber scams.