President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act 12312, officially banning Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) and repealing the previous law that legalized and taxed them.
The measure prohibits the operation of POGOs, the acceptance of offshore bets, and the establishment of POGO hubs, with violators facing up to 12 years in prison and fines of up to P50 million.
Licenses and special work permits for existing POGO operations have been revoked, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. can no longer issue new licenses.
The Department of Labor and Employment is tasked with helping Filipino workers affected by the ban transition to new jobs.
Senator Risa Hontiveros, who led the Senate probe into POGOs, praised the law, citing past abuses, including human trafficking and scams linked to the industry.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 30, 2025
POGOS OFFICIALLY BANNED AS MARCOS SIGNS NEW LAW
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