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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered two TWGs: one for reskilling displaced workers, and another to target illegal offshore gaming, focusing on unlicensed POGOs. The Marcos administration is ramping up efforts to detect and shut down residual Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) activities in the wake of the nationwide ban that took effect on December 31, 2024. The move aims to ensure strict compliance with the prohibition and address lingering challenges posed by underground operations. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has reported signs of small-scale, covert POGO operations attempting to evade the crackdown. According to PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz, some operators are downsizing their operations to avoid detection.  “We are observing indicators that some operators are downsizing to evade detection. Our enforcement agencies are actively monitoring these developments to ensure full compliance with the ban,” Cruz was quoted as saying in a Manila Standard report.  The ban, formalized through Executive Order No. 74 signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on November 5, 2024, was a direct response to increasing criminal activities linked to POGOs. The order mandated the immediate cessation of all POGO activities and the cancellation of licenses previously issued by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Despite the prohibition, authorities have identified attempts by some operators to continue their activities in a more discreet manner. Cruz emphasized the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal gambling. “We will not tolerate any form of illegal gambling operations. Our agencies are equipped and ready to take decisive action against violators,” he said. One of the significant challenges arising from the ban is the issue of foreign workers previously employed by POGOs. Nearly 8,000 foreign workers have reportedly downgraded their work visas to tourist visas but remain in the Philippines. Many of these individuals are suspected of participating in underground POGO activities, posing an additional hurdle for law enforcement. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the PAOCC have raised concerns about the potential persistence of illegal POGO operations. Without robust enforcement measures, as many as 100 unlicensed POGO activities could continue into 2025, according to their estimates. This underscores the need for intensified efforts to eliminate all remnants of the industry. o address the broader implications of the ban, President Marcos has ordered the creation of two Technical Working Groups (TWGs) to oversee key aspects of the transition. The first TWG focuses on employment recovery and reintegration, aiming to support displaced Filipino workers who lost their jobs due to the POGO shutdown. This group is tasked with implementing upskilling and reskilling programs to help affected workers find alternative employment opportunities. The second TWG targets illegal offshore gaming operations, working in close coordination with law enforcement agencies to dismantle unlicensed POGO activities. This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to uphold the integrity of the gaming industry and ensure compliance with the law. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is also playing a crucial role in mitigating the impact of the ban. DOLE has been collaborating with PAGCOR and other relevant agencies to assist displaced workers. Their efforts include identifying alternative job opportunities and providing necessary training to help affected individuals transition smoothly into new roles. Read related article: PH Govt to Inventory and Seize Assets of Shuttered POGOs

Senator Risa Hontiveros has strongly opposed any attempts to grant bail offshore gaming-linked Tony Yang, a Chinese businessman.  Senator Risa Hontiveros has strongly opposed any attempts to grant bail to Chinese businessman Tony Yang, who faces accusations of money laundering and involvement in illegal online gaming operations within the Philippines. Hontiveros expressed her concerns in a statement released on Monday, emphasizing that Yang should remain in detention. This stance is fueled by reports suggesting that certain officials within the Bureau of Immigration are advocating for Yang's release on bail. The senator highlighted the ease with which dismissed Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo–accused of being Chinese national Guo Hua Ping–managed to evade authorities. This precedent, according to Hontiveros, raises serious doubts about Yang's adherence to legal processes if granted bail. "I have received reports that there are officials in the Bureau of Immigration who attempted to push for the release on bail of Tony Yang," Hontiveros said as quoted by The Manila Times.  "We have seen how easy it was for Guo Hua Ping to slip out. Is there reason to believe that this Tony Yang will follow the law?" Furthermore, Hontiveros urged the Anti-Money Laundering Council to expedite its investigation into Yang's alleged money laundering activities. She accused Yang of exploiting the Filipino people for personal gain, having amassed his wealth through fraudulent means, including falsely claiming Filipino citizenship. While acknowledging the possibility of Yang requiring medical attention, Hontiveros firmly stated that any necessary treatment should be administered while he remains under government custody. Yang was apprehended at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on September 19th by a joint operation involving the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, the Bureau of Immigration, and the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. His arrest stemmed from alleged connections to various illegal activities. The Department of Justice Secretary, Jesus Crispin Remulla, has opted to pursue criminal charges against Yang instead of immediately deporting him.  During a Senate investigation into illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators, Yang admitted to possessing a Philippine birth certificate despite his Chinese nationality. He attributed this to his maternal grandfather's actions, claiming it was done for his convenience in establishing businesses within the country.  Immigration authorities earlier confirmed there was a push to grant bail to the detained businessman. But they assured that the approval was "not guaranteed."  “While filing for bail is a right under due process, it does not guarantee approval,” BI emphasized. “Previous applications have not been considered, and Yang’s current application is expected to be evaluated with the same rigorous standard.” Read related article: Senator Sounds Alarm on Officials “Coaching” POGOs

In 2016, PAGCOR reshaped the offshore gaming landscape by launching the POGO framework, offering operators more favorable conditions. Santa Ana, Cagayan—a municipality once recognized as the cradle of interactive gaming in the Philippines—is grappling with the economic fallout following the government’s decision to ban Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). In an interview with the Philippine Star, Mayor Nelson Robinion revealed that the closure of these facilities could lead to the loss of up to 2,000 jobs and livelihood opportunities, leaving many residents uncertain about their future. The town’s economy, heavily reliant on the gaming sector, is expected to shrink significantly. Workers, many of whom relocated to Santa Ana for job opportunities, now face challenges as the local job market struggles to absorb the displaced workforce. This decision has created an atmosphere of uncertainty for his constituents, said Mayor Robinion.  The move to shut down POGOs follows the issuance of Executive Order 74, which mandates the cessation of all offshore gaming activities under the jurisdiction of the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA). CEZA, responsible for managing the Cagayan Special Economic Zone and Freeport in Santa Ana, has been instructed to revoke all POGO licenses and ensure the complete termination of their operations. Established in the early 2000s, Santa Ana’s gaming industry was a pioneer in Asia, introducing the concept of regulated interactive gaming. Dindo Danao, a former public relations consultant for CEZA, recalled how the municipality became a hub for foreign investments through its innovative licensing framework for offshore gaming operators. “It was a unique marketing strategy that positioned Santa Ana as a leader in regulated gaming,” Danao explained. Interactive gaming—or “i-gaming”—played a crucial role in the development of Santa Ana. CEZA’s initiatives helped fund key infrastructure projects, including the construction of an international airport and a cyber village, bolstering the municipality’s reputation as a growing economic zone.  “It was a unique marketing strategy," Danao pointed out, as he recalled that dozens of operators once called CEZA home, fueling local employment and economic activity. However, the industry’s landscape shifted dramatically in 2016 when the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) introduced its POGO framework. Offering more favorable conditions for operators, PAGCOR’s centralized system drew many companies away from CEZA, leaving the latter struggling to maintain its market share. According to Danao, this shift was a turning point for Santa Ana, emphasizing the challenges CEZA faced in retaining its competitive edge. With the recent ban on POGOs, the municipality now faces even greater economic difficulties. “Once a thriving industry providing jobs in customer service, logistics, security, and support roles, the departure of POGOs has left thousands of Santa Ana residents unemployed,” Danao said. The ripple effects of the shutdown are expected to extend beyond job losses. Local businesses that relied on the gaming industry’s workforce for customers are also bracing for a downturn. Restaurants, housing rentals, and transportation services—all integral parts of the town’s economy—are anticipated to experience significant declines in revenue. Adding to the municipality’s challenges is the difficulty of finding alternative industries to fill the economic void left by the gaming sector. While Santa Ana has potential in tourism and agriculture, developing these industries to the level necessary to offset the losses will take considerable time and investment. Santa Ana’s situation serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with dependence on a single industry. For years, the municipality’s economic growth was tied to the success of interactive gaming. Now, with the industry gone, the town must confront the harsh reality of rebuilding its economy from the ground up. Despite the challenges, there is some optimism that the municipality can recover in the long term. Local leaders are calling for greater support from the national government to develop alternative economic opportunities and provide assistance to affected workers. Proposals include retraining programs, investment in infrastructure to attract other industries, and promotional campaigns to boost Santa Ana’s tourism potential. Read related article: Total POGO Ban in the Philippines Takes Effect

Macau’s gaming industry is set for a strong start in 2025, with Citigroup projecting January 2025 GGR at MOP19 billion ($2.38 billion), 76% of January 2019 levels. The gaming industry of Macau is entering 2025 with a promising outlook, driven by strong projections for gross gaming revenue (GGR). Citigroup has forecasted Macau GGR in January 2025 to hit MOP19 billion ($2.38 billion), which averages out to MOP613 million ($76.7 million) per day. This figure represents approximately 76 percent of the levels recorded in January 2019, showcasing Macau’s steady recovery from the pandemic’s economic disruptions. In a recent investment memo analyzing the December 2024 GGR data, Citigroup analyst George Choi provided a positive growth outlook for the early months of 2025. The combined GGR for January and February is expected to rise by 6 percent year-over-year. This projection accounts for the later timing of the Chinese New Year Golden Week, which will take place from January 28th to February 4th this year. The timing adjustment effectively neutralizes any potential distortions caused by the Chinese New Year’s impact on travel and gaming patterns. January’s GGR forecast also considers the traditionally slower travel period leading up to the Spring Festival. According to Citigroup, this timing quirk is reflected in an anticipated 2 percent year-over-year decline for January. Despite this temporary dip, the broader picture remains positive, with resilience evident in the projected combined January-February GGR of MOP40 billion ($5.01 billion).  “We estimate a 6 percent year-over-year growth for January and February 2025 combined, which aligns with Macau’s ongoing recovery trajectory,” stated the investment memo which was cited by AGBrief. December 2024 GGR Performance Macau’s GGR for December 2024 reached MOP18.2 billion ($2.28 billion), averaging MOP587 million ($73.5 million) daily—about 80 percent of December 2019 levels. Although slightly below the consensus forecast of MOP18.9 billion, the city’s gaming sector demonstrated resilience with a strong finish to the month. The daily run rate improved to MOP603 million ($75.5 million) during the final 16 days of December, a 4 percent increase compared to the MOP579 million ($72.5 million) recorded earlier in the month. This late-December boost coincided with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Macau from December 20th to 22nd for the 25th anniversary of the Handover. While the high-profile visit initially disrupted gaming activities, the market quickly rebounded after his departure. Citigroup noted, “Macau had a strong finish in late December,” underscoring the city’s ability to maintain positive momentum despite temporary interruptions. For the entirety of 2024, Macau’s GGR totaled MOP226.8 billion ($28.39 billion), reflecting a 78 percent recovery compared to the pre-pandemic figure of MOP292.5 billion recorded in 2019. While not yet fully back to its peak, the gaming industry’s performance highlights substantial progress in its recovery journey. Tourism Trends and Holiday Boosts Macau’s tourism sector also showed encouraging signs of recovery during the Christmas season. Between December 20th and 26th, the city welcomed 728,000 visitors. December 25th alone saw a daily high of 112,025 visitors, an 8 percent increase year-over-year. While Christmas is not a public holiday in mainland China, the festive season still managed to draw significant tourist interest. Hotel occupancy during this period stood at an impressive 90.8 percent, reflecting strong demand from travelers. The synergy between tourism and gaming has been a cornerstone of Macau’s economic success. The city’s ability to attract visitors, even during traditionally quieter periods, is a testament to its enduring appeal as a global entertainment hub. As the Chinese New Year approaches, the late January Golden Week is expected to further bolster visitation and gaming revenue. Positive Outlook for 2025 Looking ahead, the outlook for Macau’s gaming industry remains optimistic. The projected GGR growth for early 2025 reflects the city’s resilience and adaptability in navigating timing challenges and evolving market conditions. While external factors such as geopolitical developments and changes in mainland China’s travel policies could influence performance, Macau’s recovery trajectory appears firmly on track. The combined January-February GGR forecast of MOP40 billion ($5.01 billion) is a strong indicator of the industry’s momentum. With continued investment in infrastructure, marketing, and diversified entertainment offerings, Macau is well-positioned to sustain its recovery and reclaim its status as the world’s premier gaming destination. Read related article: Macau Forecasts $29.7 Billion in Gaming Revenue for 2025

The PH government is preparing for the seizure of offshore gaming operation assets as the December 31, 2024 deadline of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. lapses. Following the expiration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s deadline for a ban on Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) at the end of 2024, the Philippine government is preparing for a large-scale inventory and seizure of POGO assets.  The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) announced on January 1, 2025, New Year’s Day, that it will initiate a thorough assessment of these assets, which are suspected to include substantial real estate holdings outside of the capital. Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra outlined the OSG's post-POGO responsibilities, stating, "The OSG’s massive post-POGO tasks will consist of cancelling all certificates of birth fraudulently acquired by aliens/foreign nationals and forfeiting their illegally acquired real properties and other assets in the Philippines."  Guevarra acknowledged that the total value of these assets is currently unknown, emphasizing that the initial focus will be on securing and controlling them. "At this time, we have no definite figures on the aggregate value of these assets. The first order of the day is to take possession of and control over them," he stated. This move follows congressional investigations that revealed instances of Chinese nationals using falsified birth certificates to obtain Filipino citizenship. This fraudulent activity enabled them to establish corporations and acquire properties, allegedly for illicit purposes such as drug trafficking. In July 2024, the National Bureau of Investigation disclosed its discovery of nearly 200 counterfeit birth certificates provided to Chinese nationals. These falsifications, dating back to 2018 and 2019, were traced to the civil registry office of a single municipality—Santa Cruz in Davao del Sur. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin previously indicated the government's commitment to expediting the acquisition of seized POGO properties and assets. He noted the existence of forfeiture laws but highlighted the "very slow" nature of the process. To address this issue, both the Senate and the House of Representatives are considering legislation that would authorize the forfeiture of all POGO assets "in favor of the government."  This proposed measure aims to allow the government to seize buildings, materials, equipment, and proceeds derived from illegal POGO operations. This legislative push signals a determined effort to recoup potential losses and dismantle the infrastructure associated with illegal POGO activities. Read related article: IACAT Notes "Absence of Provision" for Seized POGO Properties

Here’s what to expect as the Philippines ushers in a total ban on its offshore gaming industry.  The Philippines officially entered a new era on January 1st, 2025, with the complete ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) taking effect.  This move by the Marcos Jr. administration follows a period of decline in the industry, with the number of licensed POGOs dropping from a peak of around 300 to a mere 17 by December 2024. The POGO ban–ordered by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during his State of the Nation Address in July 2024–was implemented to address the rising number of crimes linked to offshore gaming operations.  Authorities have reported incidents of human trafficking, money laundering, and financial scams tied to POGOs. The ban's impact will be felt across various sectors. Here's a breakdown of what to expect: Economic Impact While the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) downplays the economic impact, with estimates suggesting only a 0.25% dip in GDP, the closure will result in job losses.  Thousands of Filipinos previously employed in POGO-related businesses, from security guards to cleaners, will need to find new opportunities. The government has assured it will implement "revenue-enhancing measures" to compensate for lost income. Crackdown on Illegal Operations With licensed POGOs out of the picture, authorities will likely shift their focus towards cracking down on illegal operations. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) anticipates a rise in "guerrilla POGOs" – smaller, unregulated operations. The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Operations Center (PAOCC) has already warned of this possibility and is prepared to address it. News outlets like the Philippine Daily Inquirer reported on intensified efforts to seize assets of previously operating POGOs suspected of illegal activity. Additionally, the government is expected to conduct a "purge" of birth records, potentially uncovering fraudulent registrations used by POGOs in the past. “At this time we have no definite figures on the aggregate value of these assets. The first order of the day is to take possession of and control over them,” Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said in a statement quoted by the Philippine Daily Inquirer.  Following the full ban on POGOs in the Philippines at the end of 2024, the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) will begin a comprehensive inventory of their assets, according to government newswire Philippine News Agency.  This includes canceling fraudulently obtained birth certificates of foreign nationals and forfeiting illegally acquired properties, which may include significant real estate holdings. While the total value of these assets is currently unknown, the OSG's initial focus is on securing and controlling them. Investigations have revealed instances of Chinese nationals using fake birth certificates to obtain Filipino citizenship, allowing them to establish corporations and acquire properties for illicit activities like drug trafficking.  The government aims to expedite the process of seizing these assets , acknowledging the current legal process is slow. Both the Senate and House are considering legislation to authorize the immediate forfeiture of all POGO assets to the government, including buildings, equipment, and proceeds from illegal operations. The success of the ban hinges on the government's ability to effectively crack down on illegal operations and provide alternative job opportunities for those affected. While the economic impact is predicted to be minimal, the social benefits could be significant, paving the way for a more regulated and transparent gaming industry in the Philippines. Read related article:   Manhunt to be Launched For Overstaying Foreign POGO Workers

PCSO Lotto Results and winning numbers for Friday, December 27, 2024. Here are the complete lotto results today as released by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Check these out to see if you won. 6/58 Ultra Lotto Result 6/45 Mega Lotto Result 4D Lotto Result 3D Lotto Result 2D Lotto Result

Corona Resort in Phu Quoc will temporarily ban local gamblers from Jan 1, 2025, pending a government review of the program. Corona Resort & Casino in Phu Quoc will bar locals from playing in its casinos temporarily effective January 1, 2025. The suspension follows an amendment to a 2017 decree that enabled the program, pending a government review of its continuation. The decision follows an amendment to a 2017 decree that initially established the pilot scheme. This decree permitted select Vietnamese citizens, meeting specific financial criteria, to gamble at designated casinos. Corona Resort & Casino was the sole venue operating under this program since its launch in 2019.   A notice on the resort's website confirmed the suspension is "to ensure full compliance with current legal regulations while preparing for adjustments in accordance with future policies."  The resort assures that international customers will not be affected and can continue to access casino services. They also emphasized their commitment to preserving benefits for Vietnamese customers during the suspension period and promised to provide timely updates as new regulations are issued. Prior to this pilot, gambling was largely illegal for Vietnamese citizens, with exceptions for state lotteries and some sports betting. Several casinos cater exclusively to foreign passport holders. The pilot program introduced specific economic criteria for local gamblers, details of which were not publicly disclosed. The 2017 decree introducing the pilot program was initially intended to run for three years. However, its implementation coincided with the opening of Corona Resort in 2019. This meant the program's operational period was shorter than originally planned.   Reports from VietNamNet in August and confirmed in November indicated that authorities intended to maintain the program until at least the end of the calendar year. This recent announcement signifies a shift in that stance, indicating a more comprehensive review is underway. Read related article: Vietnam's Christmas Present? Curbs on Online Casino Games

Immigration intercepted four victims of what is suspected to be trafficking to an offshore gaming job in Clark, arresting the trafficker in the process. The Bureau of Immigration (BI) intercepted a suspected human trafficker and rescued four Filipino victims at the Clark International Airport (CIA) on Christmas Day, preventing their departure to what authorities believe was a case of overseas labor exploitation linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO)-type operations. The incident, first reported by GMA News, unfolded as immigration officers screened passengers boarding a flight bound for Singapore. Suspicion arose during the initial interviews with a group of individuals, prompting further investigation. According to a statement released by the BI on Thursday, the four victims initially presented themselves as tourists traveling to Singapore. However, upon closer questioning, their story began to unravel. They eventually admitted to traveling with a 38-year-old Filipino woman who acted as their escort. The victims disclosed that they had been recruited to work as encoders in Cambodia, enticed by the promise of a monthly salary of P60,000. They described the recruiting entity as a company engaged in operations similar to those of POGOs. Further investigation revealed that Singapore was intended to be a transit point for the victims' onward journey to Cambodia. The escort herself admitted to assisting the victims in entering Singapore with the explicit purpose of facilitating their transfer to Cambodia. This admission corroborated the victims’ accounts and solidified the suspicion of human trafficking. The BI’s swift action prevented what could have been a case of labor exploitation and potential human trafficking. The suspect is now in custody and will face appropriate charges, while the rescued victims are receiving assistance from the BI and other relevant government agencies. This incident at Clark International Airport is not an isolated case. Earlier this month, the BI also intercepted a 28-year-old Filipino man at Terminal 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, the country’s main international gateway. This individual admitted to being recruited online for work in Laos, highlighting the increasing trend of online recruitment schemes used by human traffickers. These back-to-back incidents underscore the persistent efforts of criminal syndicates to exploit vulnerable Filipinos seeking overseas employment and the vigilance of the Bureau of Immigration in combating these illicit activities. The BI continues to strengthen its monitoring and screening procedures at all ports of entry to protect Filipino citizens from falling prey to human trafficking and illegal recruitment. Read related article:   Pinay Helper Rescued From POGO Hub in Paranaque

Heading into 2025, here is a list of titles set for next year’s edition of the Esports World Cup The Esports World Cup (EWC) is gearing up for another exciting summer in 2025, and they've revealed a large selection of titles that will be battling it out for glory! Here's a look at what's confirmed so far: Returning Champions: PUBG Mobile:  After a thrilling victory over Petrichor Road, FaZe Clan, and TSM in 2024, SONIQS will be back to defend their crown in the $2 million prize pool competition. PUBG: Battlegrounds:  Champions SONIQS return for another shot at the $700,000 slice of the total $2 million prize pool, after dominating against Petrichor Road, FaZe Clan, and TSM in 2024. RENNSPORT:  Team Redline will try to repeat their 2024 win where they outperformed Team Vitality, MOUZ, and Williams Esports to claim the $500,000 prize pool. Returning Titles: Rocket League: The Esports World Cup 2024 featured a $550,000 Rocket League tournament in Riyadh from August 22nd-25th, which saw Team BDS crowned champions. However, the event struggled with viewership, peaking at only 99.8K viewers, likely due to the absence of fan-favorite team Karmine Corp and the early elimination of Gentle Mates. Overwatch 2:  The Overwatch League (OWL) concluded its final season in 2023, with the Florida Mayhem taking the championship. Though the OWL is no more, Overwatch 2 esports continued in 2024 with the launch of the Overwatch Champions Series (OWCS), which saw teams competing across different regions for a spot at the Finals. EA FC 25:  The EWC 2024 featured an EA FC tournament with a $1 million prize pool, utilizing the Ultimate Team mode. João 'jafonsogv' Afonso Vasconcelos emerged victorious under the Luna Galaxy banner after competing against 15 other players in a group stage and playoff format. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang:  MOONTON Games held its mid-season cup concurrently with EWC, with Malaysia’s Selangor Red Giants getting the “life-changing” lion’s share of the prize pool.   Apex Legends:  Alliance emerged victorious in a thrilling, record-breaking 13-game grand final at the Apex Legends Esports World Cup 2024. This win marked their first LAN victory from the EMEA region and solidified their position as a top contender in Apex Legends esports. Despite a mixed performance throughout the series, Alliance secured the final victory when it mattered most, edging out teams like Team Falcons and Luminosity Gaming to claim the championship. Rainbow Six Siege:  Team BDS reigned supreme in the Rainbow Six Siege competition of EWC, taking home $750,000.  Dota 2:  Gaimin Gladiators dominated the Dota 2 Riyadh Masters at the Esports World Cup 2024, securing a clean 3-0 sweep against Team Liquid in the grand finals. This victory marked Gaimin Gladiators' first Tier 1 championship of 2024 and a return to the top of Dota 2 esports after a successful 2023 season. Their superior teamplay and individual performances proved too much for Team Liquid, who were unable to find an answer to Gaimin Gladiators' strategies. Street Fighter 6:  The Street Fighter 6 tournament at the EWC 2024 was a significant event in the game's competitive calendar, especially as it was a relatively new title at the time. The tournament featured a $1 million prize pool and attracted top players from around the globe. Ultimately, it was Chinese player "xiaohai" who emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional skill and strategy in the new game. The event highlighted the early meta of Street Fighter 6 and set the stage for future competitions. Free Fire:  The Free Fire World Series (FFWS) was the highlight of the Free Fire esports calendar in 2024. While the provided text doesn't have EWC-specific results, the FFWS remains the top international competition for Free Fire. Honor of Kings:  The Honor of Kings Invitational Midseason 2024, held in Riyadh as part of the Esports World Cup, was a landmark event featuring a $3 million prize pool and 12 competing teams. This tournament showcased increased international participation and significantly surpassed previous Honor of Kings events in viewership. Ultimately, it was Chinese team KPL Dream Team who claimed the championship title, solidifying their position as a top contender in the Honor of Kings competitive scene. Counter-Strike 2:  2024 saw the transition from Counter-Strike: Global Offensive to Counter-Strike 2. Natus Vincere reigned supreme in the EWC 2024 contingent.  Newcomers to the Arena: Chess.com :  This is a first for EWC! Chess.com joins the fray. Chess Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen will be a global ambassador and the Champions Chess Tour (CCT) will be the official qualification path for players. Crossfire:  Get ready for a new battle royale experience! Thanks to a three-year partnership with South Korean publisher Smilegate, Crossfire makes its debut. Titles Missing in Action (For Now): The list is still missing some big names, particularly Riot Games' popular titles like League of Legends, Valorant, and Teamfight Tactics. While not confirmed yet, there's a chance these might be included as exhibition matches outside of the official leagues. Read related article: Chess Joins Esports World Cup 2025

A panel in Philippine congress wants a deeper probe into dismissed Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo’s alleged links to Chinese espionage.  A House quad committee is now recommending further investigation into dismissed Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo, focusing on potential espionage and other charges.  A 51-page progress report summarizing the committee's four-month inquiry outlines the basis for this recommendation. It calls for a thorough investigation into Guo, specifically addressing allegations of her being a Chinese spy with connections to Chinese mafias.  The report states that if the findings warrant it, appropriate legal cases should be filed, including potential criminal prosecutions for espionage. This recommendation signifies a shift in focus, raising concerns beyond typical administrative or corruption charges. The committee's concerns arise from various pieces of unverified information surrounding Guo. This includes her alleged connection to confessed Chinese spy Shi Zhijang, as featured in an Al Jazeera documentary. Lawmakers questioned Guo about this connection during the House inquiry, contributing to the ongoing investigation. The investigation also examines Guo’s prior involvement with POGOs. She was identified as the former owner of the Baofu compound in Bamban, which housed several POGO service providers, including those linked to Xionwei Technology, a company associated with Allan Lim, an associate of former Duterte economic adviser Michael Yang. This connection forms part of the broader investigation into the POGO industry. Further contributing to the complexity of the case are allegations that Guo misrepresented her citizenship using a reportedly falsified birth certificate. This alleged misrepresentation allowed her to acquire landholdings and hold public office. The Pasig court's denial of Guo's petition for bail is a procedural element in the ongoing legal process. The committee's investigation has also extended to other local officials. Mayors Liseldo Calugay of Sual, Pangasinan, and Teddy Tumang of Mexico, Pampanga, are also recommended for investigation regarding their interactions with Guo and their roles in allowing POGOs to operate within their respective jurisdictions. This suggests a broader inquiry into local government oversight of the POGO industry. Read related article: Court Denies Alice Guo’s Bail Petition

MGM Osaka IR main building construction will begin on April 2025, and is expected to be completed by July 2030.  Construction on the core building of the highly anticipated MGM Osaka integrated resort (IR), featuring a casino, is slated to commence at the end of April 2025, with full project completion anticipated by July 2030. This information comes from a report by Kensetsutsushin Shimbun, a Japanese construction industry news source, citing updates from Osaka IR KK, the development consortium led by MGM Resorts International and Orix Corp. The ¥1.27 trillion (approximately US$8.07 billion) project, located on Yumeshima island in Osaka Bay, has already seen preliminary construction work begin. The newly announced phase focuses on “section B” of the development, encompassing 101,713 square meters (1.09 million sq. feet) and housing the main building. According to the report, the main building will boast a gross floor area of 527,320 square meters, spanning one basement level and 27 stories above ground. This structure will house a variety of amenities, including a hotel, casino, theater, retail spaces, and food and beverage outlets. Kensetsutsushin Shimbun also revealed that the design for section B was a collaborative effort between Takenaka Corp and Nihon Sekkei Inc. However, the selection of construction contractors for this key phase is still pending. The Osaka IR District Development Plan, updated on April 19, details the overall scope of the project. The total land area designated for the IR is 492,680 square meters, with the total gross floor area of the facilities projected to fall between 731,000 and 848,000 square meters. A tentative plan sets this figure at 770,525 square meters. The MGM Osaka IR is currently on track for an opening “around autumn 2030,” as outlined in the development plan. This major development is expected to significantly boost tourism and economic activity in the Osaka region. Read related article: 960K Indonesian Students Gamble Online: Gov’t Data