Online gambling in the Philippines is currently undergoing significant legal changes. As of July 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced a nationwide ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), primarily targeting offshore gambling services, many of which are operated by Chinese firms and have been linked to various criminal activities, including human trafficking, money laundering, and online scams . For more information please visit god55
Key Developments
- POGO Ban Implementation: The Philippine government has mandated that all existing offshore gaming operations and auxiliary services cease by the end of 2024. This includes halting applications for new licenses and preventing renewals for current operators .
- Legislative Actions: Senator Joel Villanueva has proposed legislation to make the POGO ban permanent, requiring operators to close within 30 days of the law’s enactment .
- Economic Impact: Despite the ban on POGOs, the Philippine gambling industry has seen record revenues, with gross gaming revenues reaching over 350 billion pesos ($6.03 billion) in 2024, driven by growth in electronic gaming and integrated resorts .
Domestic Online Gambling (PIGOs)
Inland gaming operations, known as Philippine Inland Gaming Operators (PIGOs), remain legal but are under scrutiny. Senate President Francis Escudero has called for a review of PIGOs, expressing concerns that they may be associated with similar issues as the now-banned POGOs .
Enforcement and Ongoing Issues
Authorities continue to arrest individuals involved in illegal online gambling and scam operations. In a recent raid, over 400 people were arrested in Pasay City, Manila, for involvement in illicit online gaming and scam activities .
Conclusion
While offshore online gambling has been banned in the Philippines, domestic operations like PIGOs are still permitted but face increasing scrutiny. The government’s efforts to regulate the industry aim to balance economic interests with the need to combat associated criminal activities.
