Majority of POGO Centers Closed Down, Small Operations Under Surveillance

In a significant crackdown on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), approximately 80% of the 400 hubs have been shuttered across the nation. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) reported that despite the widespread closures, some POGOs have shifted to a ‘guerilla’ mode of operation, defying the nationwide ban. PAOCC’s Executive Director, Gilbert Cruz, highlighted during the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon program that these smaller POGO operations are now being closely monitored, particularly in regions like Northern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. 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. These small-scale POGOs typically consist of 20 to 50 individuals operating from rented spaces, engaging in scamming activities. Cruz emphasized ongoing monitoring efforts, especially in the Visayas, where many of these operators have reportedly relocated. He also pointed out that these operations are often found in smaller locales such as resorts, apartments, and gated communities. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. believes that these POGOs could not operate without the complicity of local government officials, particularly at the village level. Indicators of POGO activity include an influx of foreign nationals and increased food deliveries in areas like private resorts. Cruz explained that POGOs require internet connectivity, computers, manpower, and foreign nationals to guide their operations. Currently, these small-scale POGOs continue to employ foreign nationals in leadership roles, with Filipinos serving as keyboard operators. Legal actions have been initiated against local officials for negligence in managing POGO activities within their areas. In response to the issues of human trafficking, prostitution, abduction, and murder linked to the industry, President Marcos announced a complete ban on all POGOs, effective by the end of 2024, and signed Executive Order 74 to enforce an immediate cessation of these operations.