Philippines Declares POGO-Free Status Following Crackdown on Violence

(AsiaGameHub) –   The Department of Justice has confirmed that all Philippine offshore gaming operator hubs have ceased operations in the Philippines, following a government crackdown that effectively dismantled the sector.

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida informed reporters that the extensive enforcement campaign resulted in the closure of 80% of previously active hubs within one month of their expiration date. He stated unequivocally that there are no legally sanctioned POGOs currently operating within the country, nor are there any operating illegally. He further reiterated the government’s official position that no POGO operations will be permitted in the Philippines.

Despite the official shutdown of the sector, the Department of Justice has indicated that monitoring of these operations will continue. The DOJ will maintain close surveillance and will intervene if any illegal activity is discovered or reported, as anticipated.

The Department of Justice will persist in its active efforts to ensure that any group choosing to operate outside the law will be reported, and appropriate measures will be taken against them.

While the DOJ has declared the country a POGO-free zone, it seeks to alleviate any doubts about its commitment to addressing the issue. The continuation of monitoring activities signals that the government will not tolerate a return to unauthorized POGO-related activities in the wake of this closure.