QUEZON CITY - A spokesperson for the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has suggested that a gradual phaseout of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) might be more effective than an immediate ban. This approach is aimed at systematically eliminating scam operations associated with POGOs.
According to Philippines News Agency, during the Saturday News Forum, transitioning away from POGOs could be a more manageable strategy than outright prohibition. "Maybe before we direct ourselves to a discussion on total ban, we could probably revisit discussions of phaseout," Casio explained, indicating that the decision on how to proceed with POGOs remains a significant policy issue.
Casio emphasized that such policy decisions are beyond his authority and that he and the PAOCC would defer to the guidance of Lucas Bersamin, the Executive Secretary and chairman of the commission. Ultimately, any recommendations made by Bersamin will be presented to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who will make the final decision on the matter.
Currently, only 42 POGOs are legally operating in the Philippines, with one located in Kawit, Cavite, and the remainder in Metro Manila. Despite the cancellation of 298 POGO licenses by the government, numerous operators continue to function illegally across various regions, including Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Bicol, Mindanao, and Central Visayas. "If there are some in these areas, then all of those are illegal," Casio noted, revealing that many have resorted to underground operations.