Search Results

The Philippine government plans to repurpose forfeited POGO hubs into schools and government buildings, announced by the PAOCC on October 10, 2024. The Philippine government is taking steps to repurpose Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs that have been forfeited due to legal actions. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) announced this initiative on October 10, 2024, emphasizing a collaborative effort with other government agencies. PAOCC executive director Usec. Gilbert Cruz stated that the commission will work closely with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), now led by Jonvic Remulla, as well as the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF). The goal is to explore options for converting the POGO facilities into community-oriented structures, such as schools and government offices. Cruz explained the legal status of these POGO hubs. He was quoted as saying in a report published by the Inquirer . “Pag-uusapan po namin ‘yan with the Inter-Agency Task Force natin ano, at of course yung DILG po kasama na natin dyan, si DILG Remulla, kung ano po ang balak. Kasi ‘yung Pogo hubs na na-hold na po natin nung nakaraan, may balak na po dyan. Actually, subject na po ng criminal forfeiture cases ‘yan at civil forfeiture cases.” (We will discuss that with our Inter-Agency Task Force and of course the DILG, along with DILG Remulla, regarding the plans. Because the POGO hubs we previously held are already subject to criminal and civil forfeiture cases.) The PAOCC director expressed optimism about the potential benefits for local communities, particularly those near the hubs located in Porac, Pampanga, and Bamban, Tarlac. Cruz remarked, “May mga kapakinabangan naman pong mangyayari kung sakaling makuha po ng gobyerno ‘yung Pogo hubs na ‘yan, lalo na po itong sa Porac at sa Bamban. Pwede po gawing eskwelahan po ‘yan, yung Porac tsaka Bamban po.” (There will be benefits if the government acquires those POGO hubs, especially in Porac and Bamban. They could be turned into schools.) Cruz highlighted a successful example of adaptive reuse of POGO facilities in the country. He noted that a previously raided POGO hub in Pasay City has been transformed into a detention facility and a rescue center operated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). He stated, “Yung isang Pogohan sa ngayon po dito sa Pasay, ginawa na po nating kulungan ‘yan at rescue center ng DSWD.” (The POGO hub here in Pasay has been turned into a detention center and a rescue center for the DSWD.) This initiative comes in the wake of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive issued during his State of the Nation Address in July, which called for a ban on POGOs  in the Philippines. As a result of this ban, many POGO workers are currently navigating the process of visa downgrades. The government has set a deadline for these workers to leave the Philippines by the end of the year. According to the Bureau of Immigration, over 10,000 POGO workers have already applied for visa downgrading  as they prepare for their departure. The massive number of applications highlights the immediate impact of the government’s decision on the POGO industry and its workforce. In addition to the forfeiture plans, Remulla announced on October 9 that POGO hubs operating in the 36-hectare Island Cove in Cavite will also face closure by December 15. This decision is part of a broader effort to dismantle the POGO industry in the Philippines.

PAOCC probes Chinese nationals holding local posts in the Philippines, following the "POGO Mayor" Alice Guo controversy, revealing her as a Chinese citizen. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has initiated an investigation into reports suggesting that several Chinese nationals are occupying local elective posts in the Philippines. This inquiry follows the controversy surrounding the so-called “POGO Mayor” Alice Guo, who was found to be a Chinese citizen. Gilbert Cruz, the executive director of PAOCC, announced on October 10, 2024 that the commission has been receiving numerous messages from concerned citizens about local officials who may not be Filipino. Cruz emphasized the need for a thorough investigation, highlighting that decisions should not be made solely based on a person’s name or nationality. “We need to validate because we will be unfair if we say that because the official has a Chinese name, that’s the situation,” Cruz was quoted as saying in a report published by the Philippine Star . This approach reflects a careful consideration of the complexities involved in determining eligibility and identity in the political landscape. The issue was notably raised by Senator JV Ejercito during a recent news forum. Ejercito expressed his concerns after encountering local officials who did not appear to belong to the Filipino-Chinese community. He called on the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to closely monitor candidates who might be misrepresenting their identities in upcoming elections. Cruz acknowledged that there could be more officials like Guo across the country. He cited a recent investigation revealing the issuance of thousands of birth certificates in Davao del Sur, indicating potential identity fraud. Cruz noted that around 1,000 Chinese citizens had obtained new identities through questionable birth certificate registrations. “So over 1,000 are being probed just on birth certificates in one province,” he said. This investigation highlights broader concerns about election integrity and the qualifications of candidates seeking public office. The PAOCC is committed to uncovering any fraudulent activities that could undermine the electoral process. In the wake of this investigation, the PAOCC is also likely to collaborate with other government agencies, including the Bureau of Immigration and the National Bureau of Investigation, to gather comprehensive evidence and insights. This multi-agency approach will enhance the effectiveness of the probe and facilitate a more thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding these allegations. Public reaction to the investigation has been mixed. Some citizens express relief that authorities are taking these issues seriously, while others worry about potential racial profiling and the implications of scrutinizing officials based solely on their names. As Cruz noted, the investigation must be careful not to jump to conclusions without solid evidence.

The 6th Annual Scandinavian & Nordic Gaming Show will be held at the Copenhagen Marriott Hotel on Nov 5-6, 2024, featuring key industry topics and discussions. This event promises to be a pivotal gathering for industry professionals, showcasing significant insights into one of the world’s most dynamic markets characterized by robust technology adoption and high internet usage. The event will boast an impressive line-up of speakers, including industry leaders such as: ● Birgitte Sand, CEO, Birgitte Sand & Associates ApS ● Gustaf Hoffstedt, Secretary General, Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS) ● Jan Hagelberg, Senior Vice President, International Business, Veikkaus ● Lars Kollind, Head of Business Development, Swintt ● Marija Zivanovic, Product Compliance Team Lead – Europe, Better Collective ● Mika Kuismanen, CEO, The Finnish Trade Association for Online Gambling ● Morten Ronde, CEO/Managing Partner, Danish Online Gambling Association / Nordic Gambling ● Per Marxen, Head of Corporate Affairs, Kindred Group Denmark ● Rasmus Kjaergaard, CEO, Mindway AI ● Sarah Curran, Head of Marketing, eCOGRA ● Tom De Clercq, President and Executive Director, BAGO (Belgium Association of Gaming Operators) AND MANY MORE! Attendees can expect discussions centred on the current regulatory environment in the Scandinavian and Nordic regions, alongside comprehensive explorations of compliance, licensing, and innovative strategies focused on player protection and sustainable growth in the industry. Additionally, the event will feature a variety of discussion sessions addressing critical issues, including: ● Finnish Transformation ● CRM Strategies ● SEO Techniques ● Affiliate Marketing A detailed agenda, including specific session timings, is available on the official website of the event, where industry professionals can also secure their registrations. With over 40 speakers scheduled to present, the 6th Annual Scandinavian & Nordic Gaming Show is poised to tackle pressing topics in the regulated gaming market, equipping stakeholders with the insights needed to navigate upcoming regulatory changes and make informed business decisions. Given the high demand, potential attendees are advised to register soon to ensure their participation. This conference promises to be an invaluable opportunity for attendees to connect, collaborate, and chart a course for success in the ever-evolving gaming landscape.For more information on the agenda and registration, visit the official event website https://www.eventus-international.com/sngs

Carlos Yulo, fresh off his Olympic win, plans to return to Japan to express gratitude, relive memories, and enjoy his favorite ramen. Filipino gymnastics star Carlos Yulo  is gearing up for his return to Japan, a country that has played a pivotal role in shaping his career and personal growth. Having recently triumphed at the Paris Olympics, where he won two gold medals, Yulo is eager to express his gratitude and relive fond memories, including indulging in his favorite ramen. During a celebration dinner hosted by the Japan embassy on October 1, 2024, Yulo shared his excitement about returning to Japan. “Japan is really special to my heart. It really helped me to boost my gymnastics, and of course, my personality as well,” Yulo was quoted as saying in a report published by Rappler . His deep appreciation for the country stems from the years he spent there, honing his skills and immersing himself in Japanese culture. Yulo moved to Japan at the age of 16 to pursue his gymnastics dreams. Reflecting on his time there, he said, “I’m really grateful for the people that I met there. I learned skills, their culture, how they speak, how they move. I’m really grateful for that, and for the help that they gave to me, and the knowledge that I acquired now, and all the winnings that I accomplished.” His fluency in Japanese is a testament to the bond he formed with the culture and its people. The evening’s gathering was made even more special as Yulo received a citation from Japan’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Endo Kazuya, and his wife, Akiko. The citation honored Yulo “for his outstanding contribution to the world of sports and Philippines-Japan relations.” This recognition highlights not only his athletic achievements but also the cultural connections he has fostered between the two nations. One of Yulo’s main stops during his visit will be Teikyo University in Tokyo, where he received a scholarship that significantly impacted his gymnastics journey. “I’m going to the university to say thank you for the support they gave me, and of course, for the scholarship they gave me, and for also taking care of me,” he explained. Yulo expressed his desire to meet with the university president and showcase the medals he earned, a gesture of gratitude for the institution’s support. Yulo’s return to Japan also includes a personal indulgence. “I miss ramen,” he shared with a smile. “I’ll be eating ramen.” This simple pleasure is part of what makes his connection to Japan so special, alongside the professional achievements he has earned. Another significant aspect of his visit may involve reconnecting with his longtime coach, Munehiro Kugimiya, affectionately known as “coach Mune.” The two parted ways in 2023 after a decade of fruitful collaboration, which included historic wins at the world championships and the Olympics. Mune expressed hope that Yulo would carry out a “greeting tour” with his gold medals to honor those who supported him along the way. “When the Tokyo Olympics was over, Carlos and I vowed together that if we won gold in Paris, we would bring our gold medals to greet all those who have helped us,” Mune told Rappler in August. While Yulo did not confirm whether he would meet his former coach during his trip, he acknowledged the profound influence Mune has had on his life and career. “I learned work dedication from him and he taught me to just try and try — huwag matakot, huwag sumuko sa kung anong gusto mong abutin sa buhay,” Yulo said. (Do not be afraid, do not give up on what you want to achieve in life.) The 24-year-old gymnast emphasized the importance of dedication, stating, “Kapag sinipagan mo, tiyanaga mo, binigyan mo ng oras, binigyan mo ng dedication mo, binigay mo puso mo, kahit hindi mo maabot pangarap mo sa buhay, may mas maaabot na mas mataas doon, which is mas makilala mo sarili mo sa journey.” (When you work hard, persevere, give your time, dedication, and heart, even if you don’t reach your dreams, you can achieve something higher, which is to know yourself better in the journey.

Thailand and UAE could generate $3B-$6B in annual GGR, becoming key players in the global gaming industry, according to a Morgan Stanley report. Thailand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are on the verge of becoming significant contributors to the global gaming industry according to a recent report from Morgan Stanley. Estimates suggest that both nations could generate between $3 billion and $6 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR) annually, positioning them as key players in the evolving landscape of international gaming. The report, as cited by AGBrief , highlights the UAE’s gaming market, where Wynn Resorts is leading the way with ambitious plans to establish the country’s first casino by 2027. This venture marks a significant milestone for the UAE, as Wynn Resorts has partnered with RAK Hospitality to develop an integrated resort on Al Marjan Island, a man-made island in Ras Al Khaimah. The project represents a shift in the UAE’s tourism strategy, which has traditionally focused on luxury hotels and attractions but is now embracing gaming as a potential growth sector. Wynn’s Al Marjan development is expected to tap into the rapidly growing population of high-net-worth individuals in the region, coupled with an influx of international tourists. This demographic presents a fertile ground for the gaming industry. The UAE’s favorable tax environment further enhances the attractiveness of this market for potential investors. With the market projected to reach between $3 billion and $5 billion in annual GGR, Wynn’s early entry provides it with a strategic advantage. The lack of direct competition from established gaming hubs like Singapore and Macau positions Wynn to capture significant market share and drive robust revenue growth. While the UAE is setting its sights on integrated resorts, Thailand is emerging as another market with substantial gaming potential. Morgan Stanley’s report estimates that Thailand could generate between $4 billion and $6 billion in annual GGR. The country is already a well-established tourism destination in Southeast Asia, with a solid infrastructure that could support gaming expansion. However, the future of Thailand’s gaming industry heavily relies on regulatory developments. The government’s stance on licensing and taxation will play a critical role in shaping the market. If Thailand  implements a favorable regulatory framework, it could quickly rise to become one of Asia’s largest gaming markets. Analysts say Thai’s legal casino sector could even rival more established markets such as Singapore and the Philippines. Industry leaders are optimistic about this potential, as the country has seen growing interest from both domestic and international investors eager to enter its gaming sector. In contrast, Macau continues to solidify its position as a leading gaming market in Asia. Despite challenges faced by the broader Chinese economy, Macau’s gaming revenue has shown remarkable resilience. As of September 2024, gaming revenue in Macau has rebounded to approximately 77 percent of pre-pandemic levels, with the mass gaming sector even surpassing those levels. This stability is attributed to significant entry barriers and a lack of market overcapacity, allowing Macau to maintain high margins. Morgan Stanley’s report emphasizes the importance of return on invested capital (ROIC) in assessing the health and potential of gaming markets. Historically, global gaming has sustained ROIC levels above 15 percent, even amid economic downturns. In Singapore, ROIC has returned to pre-COVID levels of 20 percent, driven by a strong recovery in VIP gaming. Emerging markets like the UAE and Thailand are expected to follow suit, benefiting from lower tax rates and carefully managed capital expenditures. While Macau’s ROIC has dipped post-COVID, hovering around 12.7 percent in 2023, projections indicate improvement to 14.8 percent by 2024. This expected uptick reflects the market’s stabilization and its enduring appeal to operators despite challenges in the VIP segment.

Authorities raided a POGO near the Senate in Pasay on Oct 3, 2024, calling it a "scam farm" in the Kimberhi Building on Macapagal Blvd. Authorities raided a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) located just 650 meters from the Senate building in Pasay City on October 3, 2024. The operation, discovered in the Kimberhi Building on Macapagal Boulevard, was described by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) as a “scam farm.” Winston Casio, spokesperson for the PAOCC, reported that the operation was involved in various fraudulent schemes, including love scams and cryptocurrency fraud. The raid was conducted in collaboration with multiple agencies, including the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Bureau of Immigration, and the Department of Justice. The discovery of the illegal Pogo hub is part of a broader investigation into criminal activities tied to the rise of Pogos during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte. As part of this investigation, PAOCC Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz stated that agents recovered various devices during the raid, including computers, mobile phones, and preregistered local and international SIM cards. “This is similar to the one we raided in Bamban, the one by [suspended] Mayor Alice Guo. This is also similar to the one we raided in Porac and other Pogos we raided in Metro Manila,” Cruz was quoted as saying in a report published by the Inquirer . The similarities suggest a pattern of illicit activities prevalent among these operators, raising concerns about the broader implications for the country’s gaming sector. Approximately 185 foreign nationals and 73 Filipinos were arrested during the raid. These individuals are suspected of working for the scam farm within the Kimberhi Building in Pasay City. Authorities have committed to conducting further investigations to uncover additional violations, including whether the POGO had the necessary permits to operate. This raid comes in the wake of escalating concerns regarding POGOs and their links to organized crime. During his third State of the Nation Address on July 22, 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted the illicit activities associated with these operators, which include financial scams, money laundering, human trafficking, and even murder. He subsequently ordered a total ban on all POGOs, including those legally registered as internet gaming licensees by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

Former Bamban mayor Alice Guo plans to run in the 2025 elections despite legal troubles, with her legal team confirming she'll file a certificate of candidacy. Former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo intends to run in the 2025 elections. Despite a slew of legal troubles, Guo’s legal team has confirmed her plans to file a certificate of candidacy (COC). However, her path to reclaiming the mayoral seat is fraught with legal uncertainties. Guo’s lawyer, Stephen David, stated that the former mayor is preparing the necessary documents to file her COC. “She will run,” David told TV5 . “Why don’t we let the people decide kung gusto siya ng tao [if they want her]?” According to Comelec rules, Guo can submit her COC through a representative, allowing her to navigate her current situation, as she remains in detention on various charges. Commission on Elections (Comelec) spokesperson John Laudiangco emphasized that the Commission does not have the authority to automatically disqualify candidates. He noted that their role primarily involves filtering out nuisance candidates. “We do not have motu proprio powers,” he explained, referring to the ability to act on their own without a formal request. Therefore, the Comelec can only consider petitions filed by third parties against Guo if she proceeds with her candidacy. While the Comelec is prepared to accept Guo’s COC if she files it, this does not guarantee her candidacy. Laudiangco clarified that the Commission must receive a petition for disqualification or cancellation of her COC for it to take further action. “‘Yung parte ng petition for disqualification, petition to cancel or deny due course ‘yung COC, hindi po po pwedeng Comelec ang magfafile po niyan.” He expressed hope that someone would file such a petition, particularly concerning Guo’s citizenship, which has been a contentious issue due to allegations surrounding her identity. Guo is facing numerous legal challenges. The Ombudsman dismissed  her from her position as mayor in August, citing grave abuse of discretion in the operations of a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hub in Tarlac. This dismissal carries the penalty of perpetual disqualification from public office; however, the ruling can still be appealed, meaning it is not yet final or executory. Laudiangco acknowledged that none of the cases against Guo have reached finality, which means the Comelec is obliged to accept her COC if filed. He stated, “The preliminary investigation for her election offense charge is ongoing, particularly for material misrepresentation.” These charges stem from an investigation by the National Bureau of Investigation, which found that Guo shared fingerprints with a Chinese national, Guo Hua Ping. In addition to the misrepresentation charge, Guo is embroiled in allegations of  money laundering, human trafficking, and graft. These serious charges raise questions about her eligibility to run for public office. However, Laudiangco reassured the public that any registered voter could file a petition against Guo, supporting it with evidence to facilitate due process.

Maine Mendoza recalled her Bulacan childhood at the BingoPlus Pinoy Drop Ball launch on Sept 29, 2024, joined by Julie Anne San Jose and PPop group Alamat. Eat Bulaga host Maine Mendoza-Atayde took a nostalgic trip down memory lane during the launch of BingoPlus’s new online game, Pinoy Drop Ball. The event, held last September 29, 2024, at the Grand Hyatt Manila, was a star-studded affair graced by Maine, along with celebrity guests Julie Anne San Jose and PPop idol Alamat. The launch showcased BingoPlus’s commitment to merging traditional Filipino games with modern technology, creating an engaging digital experience. Pinoy Drop Ball is a homegrown game designed to evoke the familiar atmosphere of local peryas (carnivals) that many Filipinos cherish. This innovative addition is the first-ever live-streamed drop ball game in the Philippines, setting a new benchmark in digital perya gaming. As the event unfolded, Maine expressed her excitement about the new game. “I’m very excited. I hope everyone here is just as excited as I am for the Pinoy Drop Ball,” she said. Her enthusiasm resonated with the crowd, reflecting the significance of bringing a piece of Filipino culture into the digital age. During the launch, Maine was asked if she had ever experienced a perya as a child. She reminisced about her experiences growing up in Bulacan, a province known for its vibrant local fairs. “Familiar ako, but I always see the Color Game sa perya before. Especially in Bulacan, sa province kasi talagang maraming perya everywhere,” she recalled. Her words highlighted how these traditional games played a crucial role in her childhood, and how the new game aims to capture that essence. Eusebio Tanco, chairman of DigiPlus Interactive Corp., shared his vision for the Pinoy Drop Ball game. “As a brand deeply rooted in Filipino culture, it has been our mission to elevate traditional Pinoy entertainment and bring this experience to the modern age. Like our well-loved Filipino games Bingo Mega, Color Game, and Papula Paputi, Drop Ball promises to reignite your excitement and engage you further in the BingoPlus platform,” he was quoted as saying in a report published by Business World . Tanco emphasized that the game would not only bring joy but also connect people through familiar pastimes. The Pinoy Drop Ball game joins a successful lineup of digital games available on the BingoPlus platform, including Bingo, Tongits, and various Perya Games. Tanco noted that the game promises to reignite excitement among players and further engage them in the BingoPlus platform. “Drop Ball is another leap forward in this mission, as BingoPlus continues to bridge offline traditions with modern technology, creating a more seamless and exciting experience for all,” he said. BingoPlus’s innovative approach highlights the potential of digital platforms to revive and sustain cultural practices. By taking traditional games like Pinoy Drop Ball and adapting them for the modern age, the company not only preserves these cherished experiences but also introduces them to a new generation of players.

Australia now requires online gambling operators to complete customer ID checks (ACIP) before allowing gaming to prevent criminal exploitation. The Australian government is now strictly implementing regulations requiring online gambling operators to complete applicable customer identification procedures (ACIP) before allowing players to engage in gaming activities. This change, enforced by the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC), is part of a broader strategy to prevent criminal exploitation of online gambling services. The updated regulations, which officially took effect on September 29, 2024, mandate that all online gambling service providers verify a player’s identity before they can create an account or commence gambling activities. Previously, operators had a 72-hour window to perform full identity checks, allowing players to continue gambling while verification was pending. This interim practice has now been eliminated, requiring immediate compliance with the new rules. The process requires players to verify their age and identity before depositing any funds into an online casino account. This means that players will be restricted from engaging in any gambling activities, including popular games like slot spins, until the verification process is successfully completed. This step is crucial for enhancing the accountability and transparency of online gambling services in Australia. As part of the implementation of these new regulations, operators will need to invest in technology that facilitates efficient verification. This includes systems capable of quickly processing government-issued identification documents and matching them against official records. The use of biometric technology and other innovative solutions may also play a role in streamlining the verification process. The move comes in response to growing concerns over the integrity of online gambling platforms and their vulnerability to abuse by criminal elements. The Australian government aims to create a safer environment for players by ensuring that only verified individuals can access online gambling services. According to the new regulations, companies must not permit players to gamble until they are reasonably satisfied of the player’s identity. This necessitates the integration of robust identity verification systems that can quickly and accurately authenticate submitted documents. By employing advanced verification technologies, operators can more effectively meet these legal requirements and avoid potential penalties. According to AUSTRAC, the goal of these measures is to ensure that online gambling operators can deliver the highest level of safety to their players. By collecting accurate consumer data, operators can exclude unqualified individuals and identify unusual betting behaviors early, allowing for timely intervention when necessary. The introduction of the ACIP  is seen as a necessary evolution in the regulatory landscape for online gambling. Industry stakeholders acknowledge that while these changes may require upfront investments in technology and training, they ultimately contribute to a more secure gambling environment. This is vital not only for protecting consumers but also for maintaining the reputation of the online gambling sector. Operators have been given a one-year grace period to prepare for these stricter rules. During this time, they were allowed to utilize interim measures for customer identification. However, with this period now expired, full compliance is expected immediately.

Opening in 2027, the multi-billion dollar project is being built on Wynn Al Marjan Island, a 62-hectare site extending into the Arabian Gulf. Wynn Resorts, a prominent hotel and casino operator based in Las Vegas, has made history by being granted the first commercial gaming operator’s license in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) confirmed this significant milestone, marking a new era for gaming in the region. This groundbreaking license is associated with Wynn’s ambitious project, Wynn Al Marjan Island, set to be the first integrated gaming resort in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The luxury resort is being constructed on an expansive 62-hectare island extending into the Arabian Gulf, with plans for a grand opening in early 2027. The GCGRA did not provide further specifics about the license but noted that it follows a “diligent and extensive review.” In a statement , Wynn Resorts expressed gratitude to the GCGRA for the confidence this license represents. “Wynn Resorts thanks the GCGRA for the confidence and trust the license grant signifies and is proud to be the recipient of the first commercial gaming facility license in the UAE,” the company stated. They emphasized their commitment to becoming a key player in Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism economy. Wynn Al Marjan Island will house the UAE’s first casino, an impressive array of 24 dining and lounge options, luxurious spa and wellness facilities, an upscale shopping promenade, a cutting-edge events center, and a theater showcasing exclusive productions. It will house 1,542 rooms and suites, including 22 private villa estates, making it a luxurious destination for visitors. This will mark the first Wynn Resort to be situated on a beach, standing out among its six properties in Las Vegas, Macau, and Boston Harbor. Construction of the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort began in early 2023, with a standout feature being its 300-meter-tall resort tower, expected to be topped off in the fourth quarter of 2025. The resort will not only focus on gaming but will also include extensive non-gaming amenities. The project is a joint venture between Wynn Resorts and local partners, Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding. This collaboration aims to establish a destination that blends luxury hospitality with world-class gaming. The GCGRA defines commercial gaming broadly as any game of chance or a combination of chance and skill, where money or cash equivalents are wagered. This includes land-based gaming facilities, among other operators specified by the GCGRA. The recent license awarded to Wynn Resorts marks a significant shift in the UAE’s regulatory landscape, as it moves to embrace commercial gaming. This decision to allow gambling comes as the UAE grapples with increasing economic competition in the Gulf region, particularly from Saudi Arabia. In response to this competitive pressure, the UAE has introduced several liberal legal reforms aimed at maintaining its status as a leading trade, tourism, and financial hub in the region. Interestingly, this license is the second to be issued by the GCGRA, which was established as an independent executive entity within the UAE federal government. The authority is tasked with regulating, licensing, and supervising all commercial gaming activities and facilities across the UAE. In July, the GCGRA had already awarded a license to operate the first authorized lottery in the country to Abu Dhabi-based The Game LLC. The announcement of Wynn’s license comes after a series of reforms aimed at modernizing the UAE’s approach to gambling. This shift reflects a broader trend of increased openness in a region traditionally conservative regarding such activities.

Senator Gatchalian warns former POGO employees are turning to online scams, perpetuating criminal practices learned from their previous Chinese employers. Former employees of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) are reportedly transitioning into the world of online fraud and scamming. This alarming trend has caught the attention of Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who raised concerns about criminal practices being perpetuated by locals who learned from their former Chinese employers. Gatchalian revealed that many individuals who once held significant roles within large POGO hubs are now setting up smaller companies to engage in fraudulent activities. These new ventures often operate under the radar, using ordinary commercial spaces to avoid scrutiny from law enforcement agencies. In a specific incident, authorities raided a POGO called 3D Analyzer Information Technologies Inc . located just meters away from the Senate building in Pasay City. The raid underscored the emergence of local operators who had seemingly adopted the POGO model for their own scamming endeavors. “I fear that some of our own countrymen, who saw that scamming is very profitable, are now doing the scamming activities themselves,” Gatchalian told the “ Usapang Senado ” program on radio dwIZ. He described this situation by saying: “This is ‘technology transfer’ in an evil way. A criminal activity has been ‘transferred’ to the locals.” The senator highlighted the shift in the demographic of those involved in these operations. POGOs, which thrived during the Rodrigo Duterte administration, were primarily owned and managed by Chinese nationals. However, the recent exodus of these Chinese operators has paved the way for Filipinos to step into the roles they once filled. The senator pointed out that former POGO workers have capitalized on their proficiency in English, a skill they often possess in greater abundance than their previous Chinese employers. “Since they were better in using the English language than their Chinese bosses, the Filipino POGO operators were also better in looking for potential victims,” he explained. This linguistic advantage has allowed these local operators to broaden their reach and target a wider audience for their scams. Gatchalian further noted that the financial returns from these smaller POGO-like operations tend to be higher. This is primarily because they operate with lower overhead costs, lacking the significant investments that characterized the larger POGO operations. “From what I heard, the profits from the operations of these smaller POGOs were even bigger because they practically don’t have huge investments,” he stated. The structure of these new scamming groups often includes a designated Filipino leader or organizer who recruits individuals to join their schemes. Gatchalian mentioned that these leaders typically gather teams of 20 to 40 people to carry out various fraudulent activities. “We’re already looking into this and when the time comes, we will invite these leaders [to the Senate hearing],” he added, indicating that the Senate is preparing to address this rising issue.

RAV Bahamas has sued Genting Bhd. over allegations of fraud at Resorts World Bimini, claiming the company burdened the resort with nearly $1B in debt. The complaint details how Genting’s alleged actions have resulted in the devaluation of RAV’s investments, making their contributions “essentially worthless.” RAV Bahamas owns 22% of BB Entertainment, the entity responsible for operating Resorts World Bimini, and it accuses Genting of committing “massive and co-ordinated fraud” by mismanaging finances. RAV’s lawsuit claims that Genting has systematically deprived the joint venture of profits and has obstructed RAV’s access to vital financial records. According to RAV, Genting’s practices have led to BB Entertainment accumulating substantial losses over the years. Financial statements reveal that BB Entertainment recorded losses of $151.3 million in 2022, $114.2 million in 2021, and $105.6 million in 2020, contributing to an overall debt burden that reached $885.2 million by the end of 2022. “Only a massive and coordinated fraud could dump nearly a billion dollars of debt on a small island resort,” states a portion of the lawsuit which was reported by the Bahamas-based publication The Tribune . It further alleges that Genting Bhd, the Malaysian gaming giant that holds a 78% stake in the resort, concealed these liabilities through vague financial categories, effectively masking the true state of the resort’s finances. The lawsuit outlines a troubling scenario for BB Entertainment. By the end of 2022, the company had a net equity deficit of $693.7 million, indicating serious financial distress. The report from Ernst & Young, which audited the financials, raised concerns about the company’s ability to continue operating, citing a “material uncertainty related to going concern.” This assessment highlighted that BB Entertainment’s current liabilities exceeded its current assets by $70.5 million. Genting’s alleged mismanagement appears to extend beyond just financial mishandling. RAV claims that the Malaysian firm has made it difficult for them to understand the financial realities of their partnership. They assert that Genting has refused requests for an independent audit and has not granted full access to the financial records of BB Entertainment. This lack of transparency has left RAV unable to assess the true financial health of the resort and its investments. RAV’s lawsuit also emphasizes that Genting has attempted to sell the resort without addressing the alleged misallocations in financial records. Given that the estimated value of BB Entertainment is significantly less than the liabilities reported, RAV claims this situation has effectively rendered their contribution of 20 acres of land to the joint venture completely valueless. The partnership between RAV Bahamas and Genting began in 2012, with RAV contributing key infrastructure to what is now Resorts World Bimini. The resort features a casino, hotel, and various amenities designed to attract tourists to the Bahamas. However, since Genting took majority control in 2015, financial troubles have mounted, prompting RAV to seek legal redress.