Palace vows crackdown on rebranded illegal POGOs

island-cove-pogo-hub-closed — A large sign is placed in front of the Island Cove POGO hub in Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite, that reads “officially closed as of Nov. 30, 2024.” (Dennis Abrina)

Malacañang on Thursday assured the public that the government will take swift action against illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) that have allegedly rebranded into other illicit activities following the ban on their operations.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said the Palace is aware of concerns raised by Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros about the resurgence of POGOs nearly two months after the ban took effect.

“The government will coordinate with agencies responsible for cracking down on illegal POGOs operating without a license,” Castro said. “You can expect swift action on this matter,” she added.

Hontiveros earlier warned that despite the ban, some POGOs have simply shifted their operations into different scam-related activities. She urged authorities to remain vigilant and ensure the law is enforced.

Castro reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to dismantling any illegal enterprises that may have emerged as a result of the POGO crackdown. “It is the government’s obligation to go after these illegal businesses,” she said.

The Palace is also looking into the role of local government officials in issuing permits to illegal POGO operations, particularly in Pasay, where authorities recently shut down multiple establishments.

“We need to determine the extent of local officials’ involvement,” Castro said.

“If they issued permits despite lacking proper documentation, then accountability should not stop at the LGU level. We will work with all agencies to trace how these foreign nationals—whether Chinese or others—were able to enter and operate here. Those responsible will be held accountable,” she added.

— Charles Dantes