Regulator launches new POGO framework

In a statement on Thursday, the gaming regulator said that all existing licensees and service providers had been placed under probation and were given up to Sept. 17, 2023 to reapply.

Pagcor will also be looking into the beneficial owners of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) with a view of holding them liable if the firms are found to be violating their licenses.

Jessa Fernandez, Pagcor's assistant vice president, said POGOs found to be engaging in activities outside their licenses or accreditations "will not be granted a license under the new framework."

"Likewise, licensees or service providers who shall not reapply or were granted license within the given period shall be endorsed for cancellation," she added.

Fernandez also said that Pagcor was collaborating with various government and law enforcement bodies to establish offices within authorized POGO hubs.

In addition to more stringent penalties, Pagcor said it was intensifying inspections and verifications of compliance by offshore gaming licensees and service providers.

Reports are also being forwarded to enforcement agencies for investigation and verification of findings.

On Wednesday, Pagcor officials admitted to "gaps" in POGO inspections during a Senate inquiry on human trafficking in the country.

The state-owned firm was criticized by legislators for having failed to act on illegal activities being conducted by offshore gaming operators, particularly in Clark, Pampanga.

In May, Pagcor canceled the accreditation of Sun Valley in Clark as a POGO hub after a firm operating there was said to have been involved in cryptocurrency scams, illegal detention and human trafficking.

Last month, Pagcor also shut down the operations of a POGO in Las Piñas said to be involved in illegal activities.