Philippines’ Albay 2nd District Representative Joey Salceda has expressed his desire for the government to ban Philippine Offshore gaming Operators (POGOs) without affecting the new Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs). Following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s announcement of a total ban on POGOs in his 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA), Salceda highlighted that POGOs constitute only a small fraction of the revenues from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).
Speaking to local media after the SONA, Salceda emphasised the importance of differentiating between POGOs and IGLs to ensure that legitimate internet gaming operations are not adversely affected.
Clarifying IGLs and POGOs
Salceda stressed that POGOs only contribute a minor portion of PAGCOR’s revenues compared to IGLs, which make up a significant 43 percent. He hopes the government can find a way to implement the POGO ban without negatively impacting IGLs. Salceda explained that these internet gaming platforms are widely accessible and different from POGOs. He clarified that while he is not against POGOs per se, he advocates for a clear distinction between POGOs and IGLs, which he considers legitimate.
The lawmaker emphasised the need for a “technical way” to distinguish POGOs from IGLs, given the complexities involved. He expressed hope that the President’s announcement was made in consultation with PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco, considering the significant impact on the President’s budget and community-building activities funded by the agency. Salceda highlighted the importance of proper regulation and enforcement to ensure that the legitimate operations of IGLs continue without disruption.
Legislative reactions to the POGO ban
Meanwhile, several lawmakers praised Marcos for his decisive stance on banning POGOs. Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero described the SONA as honest and comprehensive, particularly highlighting the focus on rice, agriculture, food security, and the POGO ban. Senate Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada and Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian also commended the President, with Gatchalian giving him a perfect score for the declaration against POGOs. Senator Grace Poe expressed hope and gratitude for the President’s commitment to addressing the country’s issues and upholding territorial claims while banning POGOs.
Calls for comprehensive implementation
Senator Joel Villanueva, who recently filed Senate Bill 1281 to prohibit POGOs and all forms of online gambling, thanked the President for his stance and urged PAGCOR to promptly enforce the directive. Villanueva and other senators pointed out the various crimes associated with POGOs, such as financial scamming, money laundering, and human trafficking, underscoring the necessity of the ban. Moreover, Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros assured continued efforts to demand accountability and strengthen policies to prevent similar industries from emerging.
Impact on employment and regulation
House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Manila 6th District Representative Bienvenido Abante Jr. Also praised the President’s decision, acknowledging the challenges POGOs have brought to the country. They called on the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to assist displaced POGO workers in finding new jobs.
Speaking with local reporters, Tengco said the instructions have already been issued to DOLE to help affected workers find new jobs before 2025. Tengco said an estimated 42,000 Filipino workers will be displaced.
Implications in the industry
As the government moves forward with the POGO ban, lawmakers and industry stakeholders will need to work together to ensure a smooth transition. The focus will be on maintaining the integrity of legitimate internet gaming operations while eradicating the negative influences of POGOs. This balanced approach aims to protect the economic contributions of IGLs while addressing the criminal activities associated with POGOs, ultimately benefiting the country’s regulatory framework and social well-being.
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