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!
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