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Philippines Senate President calls for review of PIGO sector amid growing concerns
The Philippines Senate President, Francis Escudero, has initiated a thorough review of the Philippine Inland Gaming Operators (PIGOs) sector in response to rising concerns about their impact on Filipino society. He emphasised that while PIGOs provide similar services to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), their clientele is primarily local, necessitating greater scrutiny.
Escudero expressed alarm over the social issues that could arise from PIGOs, drawing parallels with those linked to POGOs. He proposed that if PIGOs prove to be detrimental to financially vulnerable Filipinos, similar bans as those placed on POGOs should be considered. His call to action includes urging the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to transparently evaluate the sector.
Introduced in 2018, PIGOs allow domestic players to access online gambling, including casino games and sports betting. As of mid-2023, there were 44 licensed PIGO operators in the Philippines. Escudero’s statement points to a crucial turning point in the gaming landscape, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to regulating local and foreign gaming operations.
Key Points
- Francis Escudero calls for a review of the PIGO sector due to potential social issues.
- PIGOs primarily serve local clients, contrasting with foreign-focused POGOs.
- Escudero suggests a ban on PIGOs if they exhibit harmful effects similar to POGOs.
- PAGCOR is urged to conduct a comprehensive review of PIGOs.
- As of June 2023, there are 44 licensed PIGO operators in the Philippines.
Why should I read this?
This article is essential for understanding the evolving regulatory landscape of the gaming industry in the Philippines. Escudero’s proposals reflect a growing concern for the social implications of local gambling operations, highlighting a shift towards more responsible governance in an industry that has significant implications for society. This discussion is particularly relevant for stakeholders in gaming and policy development.
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