The Philippine Senate has officially passed the Anti-POGO Act of 2025, effectively putting a permanent ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) following an executive order from December 2024. The bill received overwhelming support, passing with 23 votes in favour and no opposition during its final reading.
Key Points
- Anti-POGO Act 2025 passed with unanimous support in the Senate.
- The act repeals the previous legislation that legalised offshore gaming in the Philippines.
- Imposes severe penalties including imprisonment of 6-12 years for violations and fines up to PHP50 million ($896,000).
- Prohibits all forms of offshore gaming operations within Philippine territory.
- Public officials violating this law face the maximum penalties.
- The legislation follows serious concerns over human trafficking and other abuses linked to offshore gambling hubs.
Why should I read this?
If you’re in the gaming or legislative space, this update is a big deal! The Philippines moving to formally ban POGOs could have significant ramifications for the gambling industry in the region. With growing scrutiny over the effects of offshore operations, it’s essential to stay on top of these developments—and we’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to!
