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PAOCC warns of "POGO politics" influencing 2025 elections, despite a ban on operations, amid concerns over campaign funding from POGOs. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has issued a warning regarding what it terms “POGO politics” as the Philippines gears up for the 2025 Midterm Elections. This warning comes amid concerns that Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), despite a government-mandated ban on their operations, may still be influencing political candidates and funding their campaigns. Winston Casio, a spokesperson for PAOCC, expressed concern that certain factions within the POGO industry could be supporting candidates in the upcoming elections. He was quoted as saying in a report published by  GMA Network , “Meron pa rin ‘yang POGO politics na ‘yan, kasi yung mga Chinese na nandiyan sa tabi-tabi, mga Chinese criminal syndicates.” (POGO politics is still around, because of the Chinese, the Chinese criminal syndicates). His comments highlight the ongoing issues surrounding the POGO industry and its potential implications for the political landscape. The Philippine government has been actively working to close down POGO operations due to their association with various illegal activities, including money laundering, human trafficking, and other crimes. However, Dr. Casio noted that some POGOs continue to operate and even hire new employees, indicating a lack of intent to comply with the shutdown orders. During a recent raid on a POGO hub  in Pasay City, authorities discovered newly hired staff, raising suspicions about the industry’s ongoing influence. “Nung na-raid natin ito, mayroon tayong nakuha na mga bagong pasok lang (When we raided, we found fresh hires), so meaning to say, they have no intention of leaving,” he pointed out. As the Commission on Elections (Comelec) begins accepting certificates of candidacy (COCs) for the midterm elections, the potential connections between POGOs and political candidates are under scrutiny. Among those seeking to file their COC is Alice Guo, the dismissed mayor of Bamban, Tarlac. She has been linked to POGOs and criminal syndicates, making her candidacy a focal point of concern. Guo’s lawyer announced that she plans to submit her COC this week. While the Comelec will accept her filing, officials noted that she may face disqualification unless she secures a temporary restraining order from the Office of the Ombudsman. This situation underscores the complexities surrounding candidates with potential ties to the POGO industry and organized crime. Representative Jil Bongalon, who sponsors the Anti-Money Laundering Council’s (AMLC) budget for 2025, has raised alarms regarding Guo’s financial activities. He revealed that she has over P1 billion in assets currently frozen by the Court of Appeals, pending further investigation. This freeze order was issued after the AMLC observed a series of large withdrawals from her bank accounts, suggesting that she may have taken preemptive measures to safeguard her finances. “Prior to the issuance of the freeze order , nakita ho ng AMLC na malaki yung mga naging (the AMLC saw that there were huge) series of withdrawals doon sa mga bank accounts,” he disclosed. “Siguro na-anticipate na nga nila. So inunahan na nila (Maybe they anticipated it, so they made preemptive measures) by withdrawing their cash in different banks, plus disposing several properties at a lower price.” The combination of ongoing POGO operations and the potential involvement of these entities in political campaigns raises significant concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. The PAOCC’s warnings indicate that some candidates might seek financial backing from these operators, potentially leading to conflicts of interest and corruption.

Over 10,000 foreign POGO workers are downgrading their visas in response to the Philippine government's move to phase out POGO operations in the country. Over 10,000 foreign workers from Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) have initiated the process to downgrade their work visas. This action comes in response to a directive from the Philippine government aimed at phasing out POGO operations in the country. The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported on October 7, 2024 that this figure represents more than 25 percent of the total 38,773 foreign POGO workers documented by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) as of October 1. The government has emphasized the urgency of the visa downgrading process. “We are expediting the downgrading process to comply with the President’s directive,” Joel Viado, the new BI commissioner, was quoted as saying in a report published by the Inquirer . The spokesperson urged POGO workers to file their applications as early as possible to avoid any complications during this transition period. Visa downgrading effectively changes a foreign national’s work visa to a temporary visitor visa. This allows the individual to legally remain in the Philippines for up to 59 days. During this time, they can settle their affairs before leaving the country. The timeline is particularly critical, as the 59-day period aligns with the government’s POGO ban , announced by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his State of the Nation Address in July. The President has directed that all foreign POGO workers must leave the Philippines by the end of the year. In light of the closure of POGO operations, the Philippine government has formed an interagency task force to coordinate efforts. This task force includes key agencies such as the BI, the Department of Justice, the Department of Labor and Employment, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, PAGCOR, the Philippine National Police, the National Bureau of Investigation, and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission. The BI has also streamlined the procedures for visa downgrading. This simplification aims to ensure that foreign POGO workers comply promptly. “We have left no room for delays in compliance,” the BI stated. Workers who do not adhere to the directive and fail to leave the country by December 31 could face deportation proceedings and may be blacklisted from re-entering the Philippines. The decision to ban POGO operations stems from serious concerns regarding the involvement of many workers in illicit activities. President Marcos highlighted issues such as financial scams, money laundering, prostitution, human trafficking, kidnapping, and even murder associated with the industry.

Coleen Garcia and Loisa Andalio star as women in e-sports in "Friendly Fire," a new Filipino film focusing on the gaming community . Coleen Garcia and Loisa Andalio will depict women working in the e-sports sector for “Friendly Fire,” the latest Filipino film to depict the gaming community on the big screen. Directed by Mikhail Red, “Friendly Fire” focuses on the vibrant gaming community. It will also star Harvey Bautista, Jan Silverio, Liza Diño, Yves Flores, Bob Jbeili, and Jon Lucas, with a special appearance by cosplayer Alodia Gosiengfiao. This Pinoy film was chosen to have its world premiere at the 44th Annual Hawai’i International Film Festival, taking place from October 3 to 13 in Honolulu and October 15 to 17 in West Oahu. Following its festival debut, the film will open in Philippine cinemas on October 23, 2024. “Friendly Fire” centers on a Filipino e-sports team called Isla, which faces a critical challenge after losing their star player. This setback compels their team manager, Sonya Wilson (played by Coleen Garcia), to sign a new player, Hazel aka Kaya (Loisa Andalio). Kaya is a female gamer grappling with uncertainty about her life and career. With her addition, Team Isla hopes to break barriers and capture the coveted championship title. Viewers will see Hazel transform from being an Internet cafe cashier to an international gamer. The film draws on the excitement of the gaming world, featuring appearances from various Filipino e-sports personalities. Notable figures include MLBB esports host Mara Aquino and shoutcasters Rogyn “Osiris” Manansala and Aaron Paul Paragas “Burrito” Gaddi. The film prominently features the Filipino-designed shooter game, Project Xandata, enhancing its authenticity and visual appeal. Red shared insights into his motivation for creating “Friendly Fire.” He recalled his youth spent playing video games and hanging out in Internet cafes, which inspired him to bring that nostalgic culture to the big screen. “I wanted to finally try the sports movie genre because I’ve always been a fan of movies like ‘Karate Kid’ and ‘Mighty Ducks,'” Red stated in an interview with the Philippine Star . He described “Friendly Fire” as a personal and enjoyable project that combines elements from his past experiences. Adapting e-sports for a cinematic audience posed challenges for Red and his team. He noted the difficulty in crafting an underdog sports film focused on computer games rather than traditional physical sports. “It was tricky to find the balance of making it accessible to non-gamers while still maintaining the heart and soul of a gamer’s professional journey,” he explained. “Friendly Fire” presented various technical challenges, particularly in capturing the dynamics of an international tournament. The film employs a blend of character perspectives, in-game footage, and visual effects to recreate a live stadium atmosphere. Red described the process as “exhausting yet exciting,” crediting his strong production team for their collaborative effort. Access to Secret6’s “Project Xandata” was crucial for the film, allowing Red to create visually stunning sequences using an actual game engine. This innovative approach contributes to the film’s authenticity and immerses audiences in the world of e-sports. With a filmography that includes hits like “Birdshot,” “Eerie,” and “Deleter,” Red is known for his thrilling narratives. However, he revealed that “Friendly Fire” takes a different direction. This film aims to be accessible, family-friendly, and heartfelt, addressing themes of dreams and destiny. “I wanted to make a film about chasing one’s dreams against all odds,” he said. “It’s a universal struggle, relatable to many, set in the exciting world of professional e-sports.”

Southeast Asia faces a rise in cyber-enabled fraud and organized crime, largely driven by the growth of online gambling platforms and casino-related activities. Southeast Asia is grappling with an alarming surge in ction of casinoyber-enabled fraud and organized crime, primarily linked to the proliferas and online gambling platforms. A report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) underscores the role of underground casinos, junkets, and high-risk virtual asset service providers (VASPs) in this alarming trend. Released on October 7, 2024, the UNODC report  reveals that the convergence of cybercrime and money laundering has created a fertile ground for organized crime syndicates to flourish in the region. Financial Impact of Cyber Fraud The financial losses attributed to scams in East and Southeast Asia are staggering. The UNODC estimates that these losses will reach between $18 billion and $37 billion in 2023 alone, with a high proportion of these losses attributed to scams committed by organized crime groups in Southeast Asia. The report suggests that criminal organizations increasingly exploit casinos and online gambling platforms to launder money and carry out other illicit operations, posing substantial challenges for law enforcement across the region. The Role of Underground Casinos and Online Gambling Illegal online casinos are becoming central to the operations of transnational crime groups. These venues serve as key channels for integrating illicit funds into the formal economy. The UNODC report highlights the prevalence of these illegal activities, particularly in border regions and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) like the Golden Triangle and parts of Myanmar, Cambodia, and Lao PDR. The Philippines and Cambodia have been significant hubs for regulated offshore gambling. However, both countries are experiencing a rapid spillover into illegal operations. Despite an official ban on online gambling in Cambodia, unregulated platforms continue to thrive, often controlled by criminal networks. Technological Advances in Organized Crime The report also reveals that Asian crime syndicates are adapting to new technologies and service-based business models. They are leveraging tools such as malware, generative artificial intelligence (AI), and deepfakes to enhance their operations. These advancements have enabled organized crime groups to engage in larger-scale fraud and money laundering, creating what the report terms a “criminal service economy.” Masood Karimipour, UNODC Regional Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific, emphasized the urgency of recognizing and addressing this rapidly evolving threat. He noted that organized crime groups are exploiting vulnerabilities in the system, creating a dangerous environment that governments struggle to contain. Human Trafficking and Forced Criminality The report reveals a dark facet of this issue: organized crime groups are increasingly involved in human trafficking for forced criminality. Thousands of workers are coerced into participating in scams from illegal compounds. Many of these individuals are lured into these centers with false job advertisements, highlighting a grim reality that accompanies the rise of cyber-enabled fraud. The Growing Influence of AI in Crime One particularly alarming trend identified in the report is the rise of AI-driven crimes, particularly those involving deepfakes. There has been a 600% increase in mentions of deepfake-related content targeting criminal groups in Southeast Asia during the first half of 2024. This integration of generative AI into criminal enterprises represents a powerful force multiplier, expanding the scope and efficiency of cyber-enabled fraud. John Wojcik, UNODC Regional Analyst, stated that these developments lower the barriers to entry for criminal networks. Groups that previously lacked the technical expertise are now able to exploit sophisticated methods for profit. UN Recommendations The UNODC report builds on the ASEAN Regional Cooperation Roadmap to Address Transnational Organized Crime. It offers a series of recommendations aimed at strengthening legislative frameworks, enhancing regulatory responses, and improving enforcement in the region. These measures are designed to assist governments in tackling the challenges posed by organized crime and cyber-enabled fraud. “It is important to revise and strengthen legislation concerning money laundering, virtual assets, and casino management. Mechanisms should be established to review investor profiles in casinos and online platforms to identify beneficial ownership. Furthermore, adapting mutual legal assistance frameworks will facilitate the freezing and seizure of assets, states the UNODC report. As Southeast Asia faces this multifaceted threat, the findings of the UNODC report serve as a wake-up call for governments and law enforcement agencies. With the rise of online gambling and the increasing integration of advanced technologies into criminal operations, a coordinated and proactive response is essential to combat the growing influence of organized crime in the region.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. is marking its first overseas venture by securing authorization to operate betting websites in Brazil. The announcement was made public by Brazil’s Ministry of Finance on October 1, 2024. According to the Philippine Star , the Philippine gaming company is among 93 companies awarded this crucial approval. DigiPlus, known for operating popular local digital gaming platforms such as BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and PeryaGame, is targeting Brazil as a new market amidst an easing regulatory environment. The company had initially anticipated receiving this authorization by the end of November, reflecting its proactive approach to entering Brazil’s newly legalized domestic gambling industry. This development marks DigiPlus’s first foray into the international gaming market, a move that is part of its broader strategy to diversify its portfolio. Brazil represents a lucrative opportunity for DigiPlus, with its population exceeding 200 million and an internet penetration rate of approximately 87%. These factors make Brazil one of the fastest-growing gaming markets in Latin America. Formerly known as Leisure & Resorts World Corp, DigiPlus aims to tap into this potential while continuing to prioritize the Philippines as its core market. Last August, DigiPlus applied for the Licença Para Loterias De Apostas De Quota Fixa, a federal license that permits operations related to land-based and online sports betting, electronic games, and live game studios. The company’s recent financial performance underscores its robust growth trajectory. In the first half of 2024, DigiPlus reported a staggering net income of PHP5.2 billion, marking a 377% increase compared to PHP 1.1 billion during the same period last year. Revenues soared by 263%, rising from PHP 8.9 billion to PHP32.5 billion. This significant growth was primarily driven by the strong performance of its digital retail segment and the favorable adjustments in revenue sharing agreements with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). The success of its digital platforms has been evident, leading to a remarkable rise in its share price. Since the start of 2024, DigiPlus’s stock has more than doubled, climbing from PHP8.1 to PHP20.25 as of mid-August.

Alice Guo, linked to illegal POGO operations, announces she will not seek reelection as mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, in the 2025 midterm elections. Alice Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping, a suspected Chinese national linked to illegal POGO operations, has announced that she will not seek to reclaim her position as mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, in the upcoming 2025 midterm elections. During the Senate investigation into Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), the former mayor stated that her priority is to clear her name before considering a political comeback. “Hindi po [ako tatakbo]—haharapin ko po muna yung mga accusations sa akin,” Guo told Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada. “Lilinisin ko po muna yung aking sarili para maging fair po sa mga minamahal kong constitutents.” (I will not run—I need to confront the accusations against me first. I want to ensure my integrity for the sake of my beloved constituents.” This statement follows a week after her attorney, Atty. Stephen David, indicated that she intended to file for reelection. Currently, Guo is facing multiple charges, including money laundering , graft and corruption, and human trafficking, among others. She has also been tagged as a “Chinese spy”  in an Al Jazeera documentary. The Inquirer  cited the former Tarlac mayor as saying: “I know many of you want me to file candidacy for mayor in our town next year. I hope you understand my decision to postpone this. This doesn’t mean that I’ll leave you, maybe we’ll have more time to spend with you again. I believe God has a special way of doing things.” Chinese nationals use Pinoys as dummy owners The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has uncovered that several hectares of fish ponds in Sual, Pangasinan, are owned by Chinese nationals allegedly tied to illegal POGO operations. One of the individuals identified is Alice Guo. PAOCC Chief Gilbert Cruz reported that Guo purchased two fish cages spanning approximately four hectares in January 2024. “Upon investigating Alice Guo’s properties, we found that she owns two fish ponds and fish cages in Sual,” Cruz stated during an interview with Bilyonaryo News Channel . This revelation raises questions about the intersection of illegal gaming activities and legitimate businesses in the region. The PAOCC reported that 16 other Chinese nationals own fish cages in the municipality, some controlling as many as 50 cages. These individuals reportedly use Filipinos as dummy owners to circumvent regulations. Cruz explained that to own a single fish cage, a capital investment of around PHP1 million is required. “Fifty cages will cost PHP50 million. We can investigate the Chinese names we saw,” he added, indicating the scale of the operations. In Barangays Baquerin and Kabalentian in Sual, authorities discovered a total of 1,500 fish cages. Alarmingly, local laws permit only 750 cages in the area, suggesting a significant violation of regulations. The PAOCC is currently investigating the issuance of permits for these additional cages, which raises further questions about oversight and compliance. The link between illegal POGO activities and agricultural investments could have serious implications for food security in the Philippines. The PAOCC suggests that profits generated from illegal offshore gaming operations may be funneled into the purchase of agricultural land and assets, such as the fish ponds in Sual. The involvement of foreign nationals in crucial sectors like agriculture complicates the situation further. The use of dummy owners to mask foreign investment undermines local laws designed to protect the livelihoods of Filipino farmers and fishers. With illegal gaming operations already straining law enforcement and regulatory frameworks, the infiltration of organized crime into agriculture poses a unique challenge for the Philippine government. The relationship between Guo and Sual Mayor Liseldo “Dong” Calugay has come under scrutiny from senators, who are keen to investigate the extent of their connections. In the past, Guo denied having any romantic relationship  with Calugay. During the Senate probe, Senator Risa Hontiveros disclosed that Calugay might have been involved in Guo’s escape from the Philippines.

Danny Too, Booming Games' Head of Asia, discusses the rise of crash games, growing demand in Asia, and strategic partnerships shaping the company's future. In the fast-evolving world of online gaming, few companies are making waves like Booming Games. Headquartered in Europe, Booming Games is a B2B distribution company that is rapidly expanding its footprint in Asia. Danny Too , the company’s Head of Asia, recently shared insights into the burgeoning gaming market, the success of crash games, and exciting partnerships that are shaping the company’s future. The Rise of Crash Games In an exclusive interview with Asia Casino News (ACN) during the 2024 SPiCE Philippines event held at Shangri-La Mactan in Cebu, Too highlighted the increasing popularity of crash games, which offer instant results to players. He noted that human nature often craves immediacy, which is why these games resonate so well, especially in densely populated regions like Asia. “People don’t have the patience to wait for a result,” he said. He explained that crash games provide that quick thrill, which fits perfectly into the daily lives of players who may find themselves stuck in traffic or looking for a quick diversion. “Traffic jams are one of the most common issues in countries in Asia. When there is a traffic jam, they can just pick up their device and place a bet.” Too emphasized that the convenience of mobile devices has further fueled the appeal of crash games. In countries where traffic congestion is a common issue, players can easily engage with these games during brief moments of downtime. “That’s the beauty of a crash game,” he remarked. For instance, Aviator is one of the most recognizable crash games, wherein a flying plane represents the increasing multiplier. Players must cash out before the plane crashes. Most Popular Games in the PH What does he consider to be the most popular games now in the Philippines? He pointed out: “From my understanding, if you’re talking about online space, I think Jili Slots have made big inroads into the Philippines. But in land-based casinos, RTG is still very dominant because they have a few legacy games like ‘T Rex’ and ‘Enchanted Garden.'” While new formats like crash games gain traction, traditional games still hold their ground. These games have stood the test of time and continue to attract players, demonstrating that while innovation is key, there is still a strong market for established favorites. Partnership with Ronaldinho One of the standout initiatives for Booming Games is its partnership with retired Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho. The collaboration has birthed a new slot game, “ Ronaldinho’s Spin ,” which capitalizes on the footballer’s immense popularity. Too noted, “Ronaldinho was very receptive to the idea and open to business ventures. He has his own music band. He even has his own online casino brand.” With over 76 million followers on Instagram and 56 million followers on Facebook, Ronaldinho’s endorsement brings significant visibility and traction to Booming Games. The partnership aligns with the company’s strategic aim to enhance its brand recognition in Asia. By collaborating with influential figures like Ronaldinho, Booming Games hopes to instill confidence among consumers. “It gives confidence to the consumers,” Too explained. “When your brand is associated with someone popular, it’s easier to be recognized.” Future Plans for Expansion Looking ahead, Booming Games is focused on expanding its partnerships with operators in Asia. Too believes that the company has only “scratched the surface” in this burgeoning market. With a strong emphasis on branding, Booming Games aims to increase its visibility and recognition throughout the region. “We will be looking for more operators who will distribute our games in this part of the world. I think it’s very important to make the brand known in this part of the world. Branding is very, very crucial,” he stated. In addition to enhancing existing partnerships, Too expressed a desire to sign more prominent figures in the entertainment industry. “We are going to enhance our partnerships with individuals who have lots of followers,” he said, hinting at a strategy to engage additional influencers who can resonate with the gaming community. The Role of Influencer Marketing Influencer marketing is set to play a significant role in Booming Games’ strategy for 2024 and beyond. Too emphasized the importance of this marketing approach, stating, “Influencer marketing is very, very important. It is one of the keys to success in Asia.” He pointed to examples of successful collaborations with well-known figures, such as mixed martial artist and professional boxer Conor McGregor as well as Spanish football player Fernando Torres, asserting that these partnerships often lead to greater brand recognition and engagement. Ultimately, Too believes that successful negotiations with influencers will be pivotal to Booming Games’ growth. “It’s all about dollars and cents in how you actually negotiate with the influencer or the brand ambassador,” noted the winner of the Industry Influencer Award during the 2024 SPiCE Philippines Eventus Awards. As the online gaming industry continues to grow, Booming Games is positioning itself as a formidable player in the Asian market. With a focus on innovative gaming formats, strategic partnerships, and influencer marketing, the company is poised to make a significant impact in the coming years. Danny Too’s vision and insights underscore a promising future for Booming Games, one that embraces both tradition and modernity in the world of gaming.

HK's SFC files legal action against LET Group, Summit Ascent to protect minority shareholders' interests with a share repurchase order. Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has recently emphasized the need to amend the Philippines’ espionage law, arguing that it should be applicable even during times of peace. His comments come amid rising concerns about national security, particularly following revelations involving alleged espionage activities linked to foreign nationals. “Ang mahalaga ngayon parusahan natin ang espionage sa panahon ng peace kasi ang espionage law sa Pilipinas ay epektibo lamang during times of war,” Teodoro was quoted as saying in a report published by GMA Network . (The important thing now is to punish espionage in times of peace because the espionage law in the Philippines is effective only during times of war.) He highlighted the urgency of addressing this legal gap, urging lawmakers to take immediate action. “So call to action din, alam naman na ng ating mga mambabatas, na agaran nilang amyendahan yung espionage law para maparusahan at makakilos ang gobyerno nang tama para sugpuin ito,” he added. (So it’s a call to action as well; our lawmakers know that they should immediately amend the espionage law to punish and allow the government to act correctly to suppress this.) The discussion around the need for legal amendments intensified during a recent inquiry by the House QuadComm, where a documentary was presented, raising allegations against Alice Guo  aka Guo Hua Ping, the dismissed mayor of Bamban, Tarlac. During the session, the committee played an interview featuring She Zhijiang, a Chinese national reportedly detained on espionage charges. In his testimony, She expressed fears for his life should he be repatriated to China. “Guo Huaping, China cannot be trusted. The two of us dedicated our lives to China’s Ministry of State Security. Look at what happened to me,” She declared. This inquiry has brought the issue of espionage to the forefront, especially as the Philippine government grapples with growing concerns over national security and foreign influence. Teodoro’s remarks point to a pressing need for legislative reform, as current laws do not adequately address espionage activities during peacetime. In response to the allegations made against her, dismissed Mayor Alice Guo maintained her innocence. “Hindi po ako spy. Mahal ko po ang Pilipinas,” she stated emphatically. (I am not a spy. I love the Philippines.) Her insistence on her loyalty to the country comes amid a backdrop of legal troubles, including multiple charges ranging from graft to non-bailable human trafficking. Guo is currently facing several cases in court including graft and a nonbailable qualified human trafficking charge. Other pending charges include a quo warranto case and a petition to cancel her birth certificate. Presently, she is being held at the Pasig City Jail, where her legal battles continue.

The Macau government has firmly stated that it has no intentions of issuing public concessions for online gaming. The Macau government has firmly stated that it has no intentions of issuing public concessions for online gaming. This declaration came in an opinion document released by a committee of the city’s Legislative Assembly ahead of the recent passage of the “Law to Combat Crimes of Illegal Gambling.” The document, which was cited by GGRAsia, emphasizes that the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) has not authorized any form of online gaming or betting and has no plans to do so in the future. The clarification is part of a broader legislative effort to tackle the increasing trend of illegal online gambling activities in the region. The new law specifically prohibits the operation or promotion of unauthorized online gambling, ensuring that those who engage in such activities face strict penalties. The law states that individuals found guilty of “exploring, promoting, or organizing” online gambling without government approval could face prison sentences ranging from one to eight years, regardless of the frequency of their actions. This legislative approach aims to create a robust framework for combating illegal online gambling, which has become a growing concern for authorities. The opinion document highlights that the need for effective measures arises from the observed increase in such activities. By imposing severe penalties, the government seeks to deter individuals from participating in or facilitating unauthorized online gambling. Interestingly, while Macau has taken a firm stance against public concessions for online gaming, the concept is not entirely absent from its legal framework. The “Legal Framework for the Operations of Casino Games of Fortune” recognizes a category of games known as “interactive games.” These are defined as games involving cash or other forms of value, facilitated through various technological means such as telephones, faxes, the Internet, and digital data transmission. Despite this recognition, the current regulations prohibit Macau’s six licensed casino operators from offering any form of interactive gaming. These operators, whose gaming concessions were renewed for ten years starting in January 2023, are explicitly barred from engaging in this type of gaming activity. The government’s strict guidelines indicate a clear intention to maintain tight control over the gaming industry, especially in light of the challenges posed by illegal online operations. The absence of online gaming concessions and the stringent laws against unauthorized gambling come as Macau continues to position itself as a premier destination for traditional casino gaming. The region’s economy heavily relies on its gaming industry, and the government is determined to protect its reputation and revenue streams from the threats posed by unregulated online gambling. Read related article:  Concerns Raised Over Potential Shutdown of Satellite Casinos in Macau Amid New Gaming Law

Macau bans unauthorized currency exchanges for gambling, with offenders facing up to five years in prison for operating illegal exchange services. The Second Standing Committee of the Macau Legislative Assembly has made significant strides in addressing gambling-related offenses through the introduction of a new bill, the “Law on Combating Gambling Crimes.” This legislation was given the green light on October 10, 2024 according to a report published by TDM . The bill is poised for discussion and voting in the plenary session when the Assembly reconvenes on October 16. If approved, the law will take effect immediately following its publication. The committee, chaired by Chan Chak Mo, has outlined a range of measures aimed at strengthening the fight against illegal gambling activities in the region. A key aspect of the proposed law is the increase in prison sentences for those convicted of gambling-related crimes. Offenders could face extended maximum detention periods, highlighting the serious stance the government is taking against these issues. One notable element of the bill is its focus on illicit money exchange operations, which are commonly referred to as “money exchange gangs.” Under the new legislation, engaging in unauthorized currency exchange for gambling purposes can lead to a prison term of up to five years. Operating a money exchange business without proper legal approval—whether within casinos or at external locations—constitutes a criminal offense. This provision extends to any exchange that can be linked to gambling activities, regardless of where it takes place. Law enforcement will be empowered to take decisive action against these illegal operations. If illegal currency exchanges are discovered in casinos, those involved must provide evidence that their activities are not related to gambling. Outside of casinos, law enforcement can act on credible evidence, including testimonies from witnesses, to build a case against offenders. This could involve collecting statements from tourists who observe or participate in illegal exchanges, facilitating their contribution to criminal proceedings without necessitating their appearance in court. The bill also aims to enhance investigative techniques, allowing undercover operations to address various forms of illegal gambling. Chan explained that the proposed undercover system will enable authorities to conduct night searches of residences between 9 PM and 7 AM. This is critical for tackling sophisticated gambling operations that often employ deceptive methods to avoid detection. In addition to targeting illicit money exchange, the legislation encompasses a wide range of gambling-related crimes. These include illicit betting schemes, online gambling, illegal lotteries, unlicensed lending, coercive gambling practices, and fraudulent gambling. Each of these activities poses significant risks to public safety and the integrity of Macau’s gaming industry. The introduction of this bill comes amidst broader concerns about Macau’s gaming sector. According to financial forecasts from brokerage CLSA, the region’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) is projected to see a slight decline in 2024. The updated estimates suggest a 24.6 percent year-on-year growth, leading to a total GGR of MOP 228.2 billion (approximately $28.3 billion). However, this figure reflects a decrease from previous forecasts, attributed to the ongoing crackdown on illicit money exchange and a more tempered recovery from the VIP gaming sector. Read related article: Concerns Raised Over Potential Shutdown of Satellite Casinos in Macau Amid New Gaming Law