DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic C. Remulla assured on Wednesday that law enforcement agencies will intensify efforts to eradicate illegal Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs), even after the nationwide ban takes effect on December 15, 2024.
Speaking at a press briefing in Malacañang, Secretary Remulla expressed confidence that by 2025, the Philippines will be completely POGO-free. He cited the cancellation of all licenses, in compliance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive.
“This is a two-part approach: First, all licenses are cancelled, meaning POGO-free tayo. Second, while guerilla operations may emerge, we will aggressively pursue them,” Remulla said.
He added, “As per the President’s instructions, we will make it extremely difficult for illegal operators to continue until they decide it’s no longer viable to operate in the Philippines.”
To ensure strict enforcement, the DILG, in collaboration with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government units (LGUs), will actively monitor and shut down unauthorized POGO activities.
Remulla also announced that the DILG will issue a directive requiring local chief executives to promptly report suspicious activities related to potential POGO operations.
“We can detect these activities through sudden spikes in bandwidth usage, the influx of suspicious individuals, or groups congregating in houses not registered as businesses. LGUs are tasked to report such incidents immediately so we can take swift action,” he explained.
The ban on POGOs follows President Marcos’ pronouncement in his third State of the Nation Address and the subsequent issuance of Executive Order No. 74, mandating the cessation of all POGO operations by December 31, 2024.
Remulla emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and safety of local communities by addressing the risks posed by illegal offshore gaming operations.