In a significant crackdown on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), approximately 80% of the 400 hubs have ceased operations across the country. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) reported that despite the nationwide ban, some POGOs have shifted to smaller, ‘guerilla-style’ operations. PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz highlighted during the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon program that these small-scale POGOs, often involving 20 to 50 people, are now operating from rented rooms in Northern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, focusing primarily on scamming activities. Cruz noted that around 27,000 out of the 40,000 POGO workers have been deported, with some operators from the Porac, Pampanga hub escaping to continue their illegal activities in the Visayas. The PAOCC is actively monitoring these regions due to reports of POGO operators relocating there. Cruz also mentioned that these small operations are often found in resorts, apartments, and gated communities, suggesting that local government officials, particularly at the village level, might be aware of these activities. Indicators of POGO operations include an influx of foreign nationals and increased food deliveries in private resorts. Cruz emphasized that POGOs require internet connectivity, computers, and foreign nationals to lead their operations, with Filipinos typically serving as keyboard operators. Legal actions have been initiated against local officials for negligence in managing POGO activities within their areas. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced a complete ban on POGOs in his third State of the Nation Address, aiming for a full phaseout by the end of 2024, following reports of associated crimes like human trafficking and murder. Marcos formalized this ban with Executive Order 74 on November 4 of the previous year.
Majority of POGO Hubs Closed Down, Small-Scale Operations Persist
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