President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. officially prohibited Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the country through an executive order (EO) issued on Friday, November 8.
Signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Tuesday, Executive Order No. 74 calls for the immediate ban of Philippine Offshore Gaming, Internet Gaming, and other offshore gaming activities in the Philippines.
The executive order classifies all POGOs, IGLs, and offshore gaming operators lacking proper licenses or government authorization as illegal gambling entities. This designation includes them in the ongoing crackdown on illegal gambling by law enforcement agencies.
It further states that new applications for POGO, IGL, and other offshore gaming licenses or permits will no longer be accepted.
Additionally, existing licenses and permits for POGOs and IGLs will not be renewed or extended.
Moreover, the EO groups POGOs and IGLs under a shared ban, also introducing the term "Other Offshore Gaming Licensees" to cover gaming agents and service providers that offer support services to POGOs and IGLs.
