POGOs Out: Marcos Signs Law Banning Offshore Gaming in PH

- Advertisement -

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has officially signed into law the Anti-POGO Act of 2025, which declares all offshore gaming operations (POGOs) and similar activities illegal in the Philippines.

Under Republic Act No. 12312, all work permits and visas issued to individuals involved in POGOs—including gaming content providers, accredited service providers, and local gaming agents—are now revoked.

- Advertisement -

The law, signed on October 23, 2025, mandates the cancellation of licenses for all POGO-related entities and holds them accountable for unpaid taxes, duties, regulatory fees, and other government dues up to the final day of their operations.

To assist affected Filipino workers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has been tasked with implementing transition programs to support their livelihood and employment shift.

An Administrative Oversight Committee (AOC) will be formed to ensure the law’s effective enforcement, composed of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (as chair), the Department of Justice, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

The passage of the Anti-POGO Act of 2025 marks a significant policy shift amid growing concerns over national security, criminal activity, and regulatory challenges linked to offshore gaming operations.

- Advertisement -

Latest

Airports in Asia strengthen health screenings amid Nipah Virus outbreak

AIRPORTS across parts of Asia have stepped up health...

Pres Marcos recovering from Diverticulitis, will focus on critical duties — Officials

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is on the...

Palace says it will not intervene in Duterte ICC proceedings

MANILA - Malacañang on Tuesday reaffirmed that President Ferdinand...

Global girl group no na unveal new single and MV

Indonesia's first global girl group is redefining what it means to be international pop stars from Southeast Asia.

Ben&Ben drops “Duyan” MV starring couple Khalil Ramos and Gabbi Garcia

The song completes the ‘Mahiwaga trilogy,’ which includes hit songs “Pagtingin” and “Araw-Araw”

Newsletter

Pres Marcos recovering from Diverticulitis, will focus on critical duties — Officials

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is on the mend after being diagnosed with diverticulitis and has been advised by his doctors to take...

Palace says it will not intervene in Duterte ICC proceedings

MANILA - Malacañang on Tuesday reaffirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration will keep a hands-off stance on the upcoming International Criminal Court (ICC)...

Airports in Asia strengthen health screenings amid Nipah Virus outbreak

AIRPORTS across parts of Asia have stepped up health checks following a Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, India, according to a report. Thailand has...