PAGCOR: Ban on POGOs could harm economy, increase crime

PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro H. Tengco stated on Sunday that the government should target scam syndicates instead of banning Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), emphasizing that criminal activities, not POGOs themselves, pose a real threat.

Some lawmakers are proposing to ban POGOs due to concerns about reputational risks and national security issues, while Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto has expressed openness to such proposals but will make recommendations at an appropriate time.

PAGCOR reported that legitimate internet gaming licensees contributed over P5 billion in gross revenues last year and operates embedded monitoring teams to ensure compliance with licensing terms.

On Wednesday, PAGCOR emphasized that banning Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs), formerly known as POGOs, could cause more harm than good by driving legitimate operators underground and potentially increasing illegal activities.

PAGCOR stressed the importance of not demonizing licensed operators who provide legitimate jobs and livelihoods, while emphasizing strict enforcement against illegal activities and violations.