Authorities reiterated that Special Class Business Process Outsourcing (SCBPO) are exempted from the crackdown against Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO).
Special Class Business Process Outsourcing (SCBPO) companies have received renewed confirmation of their exemption from the ongoing Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) ban, Asia Gaming Brief reports.
This clarification comes after a recent inspection of SCBPO facilities by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), bringing much-needed clarity to the industry.
The inspection, conducted on Friday, December 20th, aimed to ensure that legitimate BPOs were not being used as fronts for illegal POGO operations. Legal expert Tonet Quiogue hailed the event as a “significant development that reinforces this position and provides the clarity the industry has long sought.”
Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairman Alejandro H. Tengco and key members of the Technical Working Group (TWG) on Executive Order 74 led the inspection.
Among the attendees were DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, DOJ Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano, and representatives from various agencies including the PAOCC, AMLA, Securities and Exchange Commission, Bureau of Immigration, and DOLE. The delegation visited two of the largest SCBPOs in the country, observing firsthand their operations as standard BPO companies providing services to legitimate international gaming firms.
Secretary Remulla emphasized the distinction between SCBPOs and illegal POGOs, stating that SCBPOs represent the “good side of gaming, the one that provides good jobs to people and is not involved in scams.” He offered assurances that these companies would not be subject to raids or disruptions, clarifying that enforcement efforts are specifically targeting POGOs and other entities explicitly covered by Executive Order 74. This statement brings much-needed reassurance to the SCBPO sector, which has been operating under a cloud of uncertainty due to the broader crackdown on illegal online gaming.
Despite the approaching deadline for the POGO ban mandated by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the PAOCC has identified approximately 100 suspected “guerrilla POGOs” still operating across the Philippines. PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz announced that enforcement activities will intensify in January, with a focus on inspecting locations such as hotels, resorts, and residential subdivisions suspected of housing small, clandestine POGO hubs. This targeted approach underscores the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal online gambling while allowing legitimate businesses like SCBPOs to continue their operations without undue interference.
Read related article: PAGCOR Calls For Vigilance Amid POGOs “Masquerading” As BPOs
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