Bill to ban POGOs permanently filed in Philippine Senate

Jenny Ortiz December 10, 2024

SiGMA news

Philippine Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chair of the Senate Ways and Means Committee had filed Bill 2868 also known as the “Anti-POGO Act of 2024” which aims to permanently end the operations of all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO). The new bill aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to prohibit offshore gaming in the country.

Once passed, the measure will institutionalise the prohibition, ensuring its enforcement extends beyond the current administration. As per Marcos’ order, effective 1 January 2025, no individual or entity will be permitted to operate, promote, or support offshore gaming within Philippine territory. Additionally, all POGO-related licences will be revoked by the end of 2024, and Alien Employment Permits issued to POGO workers will be annulled.

Penalising violations and safeguarding labour

The bill outlines strict penalties for engaging in or supporting POGO operations. Violators will face charges under the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001. Moreover, government employees complicit in POGO activities risk dismissal, disqualification from public service, and forfeiture of retirement benefits.

To address the impact on local workers, the bill directs the country’s Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to collaborate with other agencies, such as the Technical Education And Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), to facilitate job transitions. Also, the proposed legislation will repeal Republic Act 11590, which previously legitimised POGO taxation, further eradicating any legal foothold for these operations.

The Senate’s investigation into POGO operations revealed economic and social costs far outweighing any benefits. In 2023, the Department of Finance (DOF) reported that the annual net cost of allowing POGOs to operate reached PHP99.52 billion (1.6 billion). The industry has been associated with criminal activities, human trafficking, and threats to national security, prompting legislators to stress the urgency of a complete ban.

United front against offshore gaming

The legislative measure has garnered broad support within the Senate. Senator Joel Villanueva emphasised the need for a lasting solution to ensure POGOs cannot re-establish themselves under future administrations. Senator Risa Hontiveros proposed amendments to impose harsher penalties on officials who facilitate their continued operations.

Restoring order and justice

Senators have framed the Anti-POGO Act as a step towards protecting Filipinos from the effects of offshore gaming operations. As deliberations continue, the Philippine Senate aims to enact the bill before the 19th Congress concludes.

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