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President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has approved a law prohibiting all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), citing associations with money laundering and violations of human rights.
According to Republic Act No. 12312 or the Anti-POGO Act of 2025, all employment permits and visas granted to individuals engaged in offshore gaming — including staff of operators, content providers, and accredited service companies — are presently annulled.
Mr. Marcos endorsed the law on Oct. 23, directing the Department of Labor and Employment to establish initiatives that will assist Filipino workers in transitioning following the industry’s closure.
The President initially declared the comprehensive ban during his 2024 state of the nation address, following a series of criminal cases associated with POGOs.
He remarked that offshore gaming centers had turned into hotspots for money laundering, human trafficking, and torture, asserting that such activities have “no place in a fair and organized society.” — Chloe Mari A. Hufana
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