100 POGOs Still Operating in PH Despite Ban

Despite a nationwide ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) announced by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., approximately 100 such operators continue to function in the Philippines. This situation comes months after the President’s order, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the enforcement measures.

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) provided this update, citing a report from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). According to PAOCC chief Gilbert Cruz, while many POGOs have ceased operations, a significant number are still under surveillance. “Many have also closed based on the report given by PAGCOR, while others are continuously winding down their operations,” Cruz was quoted as saying by in a report published by the Inquirer.

Initially, around 200 POGOs were operating before the crackdown began. Cruz noted that the number has now been reduced to half. “We are still monitoring a few POGOs left. Before, there were about 200, but now there are only around 100,” he stated. Even if they split into smaller groups, the executive is confident that they will be able to close them down.

The persistence of these POGOs poses serious challenges to the government’s efforts to eradicate them. Cruz mentioned that these operators tend to operate at night due to time zone differences, making them harder to detect. However, he expressed optimism about the PAOCC’s ability to track them down. “Even if they hide into smaller groups, the indicators are still there,” he added.

The President’s directive came during his third State of the Nation Address on July 22, where he outlined various illicit activities associated with POGOs. He highlighted concerns over torture, financial scams, money laundering, prostitution, human trafficking, kidnapping, and even murder. The ban reflects the government’s commitment to combat organized crime and safeguard public safety.

In response to the ban, President Marcos instructed PAGCOR to ensure that all POGOs are shut down by the end of the year. This timeline emphasizes the urgency of the situation and the government’s determination to enforce its policies. Additionally, he called on the Department of Labor and Employment to work with economic managers to find alternative employment for the Filipino workers impacted by the closure of these operations.

The ramifications of the POGO ban are significant. While the government aims to eliminate illicit activities associated with these operators, many workers face uncertainty regarding their employment. The Department of Labor and Employment is tasked with developing strategies to transition these POGO workers into legitimate job opportunities.

Public sentiment regarding POGOs has been mixed. While some citizens welcome the crackdown on illegal activities, others express concern about the economic impact of shutting down the industry, especially in the real estate sector. The POGO sector has contributed significantly to government revenues and provided jobs for many Filipinos, albeit often in precarious conditions.

As the government continues its efforts to monitor and close down these operations, it faces the challenge of balancing enforcement with the need to support affected workers. The PAOCC remains vigilant, stating that it will not relent in its efforts to dismantle the remaining POGOs.

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