POGO scams alert! PAGCOR warns against fake POGO licenses and reopening claims. POGOs remain banned in the Philippines. Protect yourself from fraud.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has issued a strong warning to the public regarding fraudulent letters and text messages claiming the resurgence of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs).
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco firmly stated that these claims are entirely false and are being circulated by unscrupulous individuals attempting to defraud potential investors.
"It has come to our attention that some people are enticing potential investors into paying huge amounts for supposed limited slots of POGO licenses, and saying POGOs will be supposedly operating directly under PAGCOR," Chairman Tengco explained. He categorically denied these claims, emphasizing, "There is absolutely no truth to this. POGOs remain banned, and there are no plans to bring them back, now or in the foreseeable future.”
It can be recalled that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the ban on POGOs in the Philippines, citing its links to human trafficking. The government is currently cracking down on these operations, which allegedly splintered into smaller and more obscure units in more remote areas.
These scammers are reportedly targeting individuals with enticing offers, requesting substantial amounts of money, sometimes as much as PHP 50 million, for supposed attorney’s fees, consultation, and assessment to secure a POGO slot. Chairman Tengco urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious communications to PAGCOR, the police, or other law enforcement agencies.
"Should you get any text message or letter informing you that you can avail of a POGO slot, please report them immediately to PAGCOR or to the police and other law enforcement agencies because these are scammers who need to be stopped," he warned.
Chairman Tengco reiterated the government's stance on POGOs, stating unequivocally, "We reiterate: POGOs will not reopen during the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and PAGCOR is not entertaining, and will not entertain, any applications." This clear and decisive statement aims to dispel any confusion and prevent individuals from falling victim to these scams.
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