By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — As promised, Malacañang on Friday (08 Nov 2024) issued Executive Order No. 74, banning all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (Pogos), Internet Gaming, and other offshore gaming activities in the country.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said “the State has the paramount duty to safeguard national security, maintain public order, uphold the rule of law, protect the safety of its citizens, and ensure the integrity of the social fabric of the nation.”
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), this move is in response to the concerns of agencies such as the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), saying that POGO operations caused negative effects such as increased crime, exploitation, and money laundering risk.
The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) Report also indicated Pogos have been identified as susceptible to money laundering, fraud, and other illicit financial activities.
“The high reputational risks associated with POGO/IGL operations deter foreign investment and tourism, undermining the efforts of the National Government in promoting the country as a safe and sustainable investment and tourism destination,” the EO read.
The President’s order, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on November 5, will cover Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators and Offshore Gaming Operations and Services.
During his third State of the Nation Address last July, Marcos promised to ban all the Pogos in the country.
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