Illegal POGO Arrests in the Philippines Show Segment Still Alive
Philippine authorities have intensified their campaign against unlicensed Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), demonstrated by a recent operation in Pasay City. A coordinated effort by the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), and the police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group resulted in the arrest of six South Korean nationals and 15 Filipinos suspected of illegal online gambling activities.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The operation was carried out following intelligence reports that a group of South Koreans had been running an unlicensed online gaming center, allegedly serving other South Koreans. Authorities suspect the group was also involved in match-fixing schemes and online fraud.
Related: Philippine Government to Investigate Banks over POGO OperationsDuring the raid, officials discovered that both foreign and local workers were engaged in sports betting and cryptocurrency-based transactions. Some of the Filipino workers admitted that they had previously been employed at other POGOs that had ceased operations after the government enforced a ban on the sector.
The South Korean suspects are currently being held at the PAOCC facility in Pasay while charges are being prepared. They are expected to face violations of Republic Act 8799, the Securities Regulation Code, along with charges of illegal gambling under Republic Act 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act. Authorities are also investigating the management of the hotel where the operation was being conducted to determine how the illegal gaming hub was able to function within the premises.
The Philippine government has taken a strong position against POGOs, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leading efforts to remove them from the country. Concerns about criminal activities linked to POGOs, including human trafficking and financial fraud, have been a major factor in the administration’s move to shut them down. The government has been systematically revoking the licenses of these operators and ordering them to cease operations.
More Business News
POGO Crackdown Continues
Since 2023, authorities have been dismantling businesses associated with POGO operations. The Department of Justice, the Philippine National Police, and other agencies have conducted multiple enforcement actions against unlicensed gaming operators. Allegations of links between POGOs and organized crime have increased calls for their removal from the country, both from local lawmakers and international partners. These efforts have led to multiple raids, the arrest of individuals involved in illegal gambling, and the deportation of foreign nationals engaged in these activities.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), the body responsible for regulating gambling in the country, has imposed stricter guidelines on operators still holding valid licenses. Regulatory efforts have focused on financial oversight and ensuring that gaming firms adhere to legal and ethical standards. Despite these measures, unauthorized POGO hubs continue to function, as seen in the latest arrests in Pasay City.
Authorities are continuing their investigations into businesses that may be providing space and resources to illegal POGO operators. Hotels, office buildings, and other establishments suspected of housing these operations are under scrutiny to prevent further growth of underground gambling hubs. Law enforcement agencies are also collaborating with international counterparts to combat transnational crimes associated with POGOs, including cyber scams and money laundering.
The Philippine government remains committed to eliminating unauthorized POGO operations and addressing the economic and security issues they pose. Officials are expected to continue conducting raids and making arrests as they work to fully enforce the law and dismantle illegal online gambling networks.
RELATED TOPICS: Business
Latest News
Most Read
Must Read
Interviews
Sweepstakes Casinos: Thriving in an Ever-Changing Industry – Interview with Attorney Stephen C. Piepgrass
Feb 17, 2025
Interviews
Review this New Post
Leave a Comment
User Comments
Comments for Illegal POGO Arrests in the Philippines Show Segment Still Alive