The Anti-POGO Act of 2024 (Senate Bill No. 2868) seeks to "eliminate once and for all the operations" of POGOs in the Philippines.
Efforts to permanently ban Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the country are gaining momentum, with Senate deliberations moving forward on two key measures aimed at eradicating the controversial industry.
On December 9, 2024, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairperson of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, presented the proposed Anti-POGO Act of 2024 (Senate Bill No. 2868) and accompanying Committee Report No. 342 for plenary discussion.
The bill, which aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s executive order to halt POGO operations, seeks to institutionalize a ban on offshore gaming. According to Gatchalian, this legislation ensures that the prohibition will extend beyond the current administration, creating a lasting legal framework against the industry.
Comprehensive Ban Proposed
Under the proposed legislation, all POGO-related activities—including operations, content provision, and site development—would be outlawed in the Philippines by January 1, 2025. The bill also calls for the revocation of all POGO licenses by December 31, 2024, and the cancellation of Alien Employment Permits issued to individuals associated with the industry. Violators, whether individuals or entities, would face penalties outlined under existing laws, such as the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001 and the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012.
Government officials who assist in POGO operations would face additional consequences, including dismissal, a lifetime ban from public service, and the forfeiture of retirement benefits.
Gatchalian emphasized that the bill goes beyond prohibiting POGO activities. It also directs agencies, such as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), to collaborate with others to support affected Filipino workers as they transition to alternative employment opportunities.
“With each provision, we are laying down a framework that not only bans offshore gaming operations but also builds safeguards for our people. Sa pamamagitan ng Anti-POGO Act, binubura natin ang kadilimang dulot ng POGO at ibinabalik ang dangal ng ating bayan (The Anti-POGO Act eliminates the darkness POGOs have brought and restores dignity to our nation),” Gatchalian said.
Economic and Social Costs
Gatchalian presented findings from Senate inquiries that highlighted the adverse economic and social impacts of POGOs. A report by the Department of Finance revealed that the net annual cost of allowing POGOs to operate in 2023 reached ₱99.52 billion, far outweighing any economic benefits.
Gatchalian pointed out that Filipinos would “pay the price” if POGOs would be allowed to continue operating in the Philippines. "This is something we cannot afford to happen,” he stated.
Senator Risa Hontiveros echoed these sentiments, citing cases of fraud, abuse, and threats to national security linked to POGO operations. Hontiveros also criticized former President Rodrigo Duterte for initially permitting POGOs to operate, which she said brought promises of jobs and economic aid but ultimately led to exploitation and societal harm.
“Nangako sila ng trabaho at tulong—pero ang tunay nilang dala, karumal-dumal na panloloko, abuso, at panganib 'di lang sa mga Pilipino kundi pati sa pambansang kaayusan at seguridad (They promised jobs and assistance—but what they truly brought were heinous deception, abuse, and threats not only to Filipinos but also to national order and security)," said Hontiveros.
Institutional Safeguards
The bill includes provisions to repeal Republic Act No. 11590, which had previously legitimized offshore gaming through taxation. By dismantling this law taxing POGOs, lawmakers aim to permanently remove the industry from Philippine soil.
President Marcos had already declared a POGO ban during his State of the Nation Address in July 2024. Following his directive, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) was tasked with phasing out and ceasing all POGO operations by the end of the year.
Broader Support in the Senate
Senator Joel Villanueva, a principal sponsor of the bill, underscored the necessity of codifying the ban to ensure that POGOs cannot return under any future administration. “This act will eradicate all traces of POGOs in our country and prevent their resurgence,” Villanueva said.
Senators Gatchalian and Hontiveros both stressed that the victims of POGO-related crimes—ranging from human trafficking to financial fraud—must not be forgotten. “Each victim has a story, a name, and a family. It is our duty to end the cycle of crimes and injustice caused by POGOs,” Gatchalian said.
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