The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR), the regulatory body overseeing gaming activities in the country, is taking a bold stand to clean up the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) industry. After admitting to past shortcomings in effectively monitoring POGOs, PAGCOR is now implementing stringent measures to ensure transparency and legality within the sector. It’s only a matter of time until real change happens to this controversial and relevant sector of the country.
Related: PAGCOR to Shift from Casino Operations to Regulatory Role by 2025
Urging POGOs to register or face consequences
In an effort to overhaul the system, all POGOs are now required to apply for new licenses, giving authorities an opportunity to thoroughly examine their operations. This move comes after some POGO operators were linked to severe cases of human trafficking and money laundering, raising serious concerns about the industry’s integrity.
Under the watchful eye of lawyer Jessa Fernandez, the VP of PAGCOR’s licensing division, the review process aims to scrutinize the ownership of POGO businesses diligently. Any involvement in illicit activities will be met with swift and severe punishment, as PAGCOR is determined to uphold the industry’s integrity.
The new licensing system leaves no room for leniency. Companies found to be operating beyond the scope of their permits will not receive new licenses, and those failing to comply or obtain licenses within the given timeframe risk cancellation and may be unable to renew their permits.
Related: PAGCOR unveils ambitious plans for online gambling in the Philippines
PAGCOR: Moving on with a stricter hand on all POGOs and licensees
PAGCOR is taking this crackdown seriously, bolstering the licensing process with stricter requirements. POGOs now need to demonstrate higher capital on hand, with a new upfront payment of PHP100 million (approximately US$1.8 million). Additionally, their properties cannot exceed 25,000 square meters each, and a license will be valid for only two years.
The efforts to regulate POGOs come in light of recent findings by the Philippine National Police – Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), which revealed that several POGOs were harboring 17 fugitives in Clark, Pampanga, and Las Piñas City. While these individuals were handed over to their respective embassies, the incident casts a shadow on the POGO industry’s reputation.
Legislators, led by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, have been vocal in supporting the prohibition of POGOs in the Philippines, citing their association with criminal activities and negative impact on society. Some lawmakers propose redirecting PAGCOR’s role from casino management to a dedicated regulatory function.
Related: PH resorts group rides towards funding victory for Philippine casino venture
Avoiding trouble when it hits
While PAGCOR’s efforts are commendable, the call for reform in the POGO industry continues to be a contentious issue. As the licensing review proceeds and more revelations come to light, the future of POGOs in the Philippines remains uncertain. Nevertheless, PAGCOR’s commitment to rectify past failures is a step in the right direction to ensure a transparent and law-abiding gaming landscape in the country.
The battle against POGOs and their potential repercussions is far from over, and we will be closely monitoring the developments as they unfold. But for now, clearing and monitoring all these POGOs and unlicensed game apps and operations.
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