Philippines’ Supreme Court dismisses petitions over PAGCOR’s POGO regulations

Jenny Ortiz March 8, 2024

SiGMA news

Philippines’ Supreme Court dismisses petitions over PAGCOR’s POGO regulations

The Supreme Court of the Philippines has dismissed multiple petitions challenging the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s (PAGCOR) authority to enforce regulations on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

The Supreme Court’s decision was in accordance with the approved RR-POGO in 2016.

As reported by the local media, the Supreme Court rejected consolidated petitions from various groups and individuals on procedural grounds. These petitions contested the legality of regulations governing the licensing, accreditation, and registration of offshore gaming operators, agents, and associated service providers.

Failure to follow proper court hierarchy

The SC observed that petitioners, which included the Union for National Development and Good Governance Philippines (Unilad), Anti-Trapo Movement of the Philippines Inc., and lawyer Jovencio Evangelista, failed to follow proper court hierarchy and provide sufficient justification for the issues raised.

Moreover, the SC noted the lack of a direct or personal stake shown by the petitioners in the enforcement of the RR-POGO.

The SC ruled that the significance of the raised issues lacked substantial evidence to warrant consideration.

Petitioners claim PAGCOR lacks authority over POGO

Petitioners contested the constitutionality of the RR-POGO, arguing that PAGCOR lacked the authority to regulate online or offshore gaming.

They sought to invalidate the RR-POGO and permanently restrain PAGCOR from implementing its provisions.

New regulatory framework introduced

In August 2023, PAGCOR introduced a revised regulatory framework for offshore gaming, rebranding POGO as Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs).

SiGMA Africa starts next week!

The highly anticipated SiGMA Africa event kicks off in Cape Town, South Africa on the 11th of March, the gaming industry is abuzz with excitement. Building on the success of its inaugural edition in Nairobi, Kenya, in January 2023, SiGMA Africa is strategically positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s burgeoning gaming landscape. With the continent’s market poised for exponential growth, driven by a rapidly evolving digital ecosystem and increasing mobile connectivity, SiGMA Group recognizes the need to foster collaboration and innovation within the industry. By bringing together leading stakeholders and visionaries in gaming, SiGMA aims to catalyse progress and propel Africa toward a new era of prosperity and opportunity. As the countdown to the event begins, anticipation mounts for what promises to be a landmark gathering of gaming enthusiasts and innovators in the vibrant city of Cape Town.