PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has issued an executive order officially banning all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), internet gaming, and other offshore gaming activities in the country.
Executive Order No. 74 mandates a comprehensive ban on POGOs and online gaming, covering illegal offshore gaming operations, new license applications, license renewals, and ongoing operations.
The announcement follows Marcos’ third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22, 2024, where he declared the shutdown of POGOs nationwide. This decision was prompted by recent raids on illegal POGOs that uncovered equipment linked to torture, online scams, and other criminal activities.
Marcos has tasked the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) with enforcing the directive, ensuring all POGO activities cease entirely by the end of the year.