The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Jesse C. Ong
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced a sweeping ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) during his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, citing their links to various criminal activities.
Speaking before a joint session of Congress at the Batasang Pambansa Complex, President Marcos addressed growing calls to prohibit firms offering online gambling services in the country.
“Effective today, all POGOs are banned,” Marcos declared in his speech, drawing applause from lawmakers and attendees. “I hereby instruct PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) to wind down and cease the operation of POGOs by the end of the year.”
The President’s directive follows mounting concerns over the rise in criminal activities, including money laundering, human trafficking, and other serious offenses associated with POGO operations.
Law enforcement agencies and local government units have reported a surge in incidents linked to these operators, prompting urgent calls for regulatory action.
To address unemployment concerns relative to the cessation of POGO operations, President Marcos has ordered the Department of Labor and Employment to coordinate with economic managers in finding jobs for Filipino employees who will be displaced.