In a bold move to address the country’s growing concerns, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has announced a total ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the Philippines. This decision comes after years of controversy and allegations of illegal activities linked to POGOs.
In his third State of the Nation Address (SONA), Marcos emphasized the need to stop the “grave abuse and disrespect to our system of laws” and to put an end to the “panggulo” (nonsense) that has plagued the country. He also directed the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to wind down and cease POGO operations by the end of the year.
Philippines Government Helps Displaced Employees
As the ban takes effect, the Philippine government has vowed to help Filipino POGO workers find new jobs. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto assured that the government would assist Filipino POGO workers in finding new employment. “We have until the end of the year to ensure that all displaced Filipino workers will have new jobs,” Recto said. He added that the Department of Finance would collaborate with the Department of Labor and Employment to provide reskilling and upskilling training.
National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan downplayed the economic impact of the ban, noting that POGOs contributed less than 0.5% to the country’s GDP in 2022. He emphasized that the social and reputational costs of hosting POGOs outweigh their economic benefits.
Other government agencies, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), have also pledged to provide assistance to affected workers. The DSWD has indicated its desire to use other shutdown POGO hubs to convert them into shelters for reached-out individuals.
Addressing Social Concerns and Illegal Activities
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed local government units (LGUs) to scrutinize documents of establishments as the first line of defense in granting business permits. The DILG chief has also emphasized the importance of coordination with proper authorities to ensure that only legitimate businesses are allowed to operate.
The ban comes in response to numerous reports of criminal activities linked to POGOs, including financial scams, money laundering, human trafficking and violent crimes. Marcos acknowledged that while the ban would solve many problems, it wouldn’t address all issues.
Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian outlined plans to assist both Filipino and foreign workers affected by the ban. The government will provide temporary housing, cash aid and support for those wishing to start small businesses.
In light of the ban, Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. has directed local government units to scrutinize business permit applications more closely to prevent illegal operations from continuing under different guises.
As the Philippines moves to implement this significant policy change, the government faces the challenge of balancing economic considerations with social welfare and national security concerns.