Pagcor debunks document on immediate closure of Pogos

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) hs  debunked a memorandum ordering  local government units in Metro Manila to terminate all activities of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogo) or Internet Gaming Licensees (IGL) by next month.

The false document, with thePagcor and Bagong Pilipinas logos and dated July 26, claimed that “all local government operations groups are required to end these activities within the first week of August 2024.”

In response, Pagcor issued a memorandum also dated July 26, which was sent to reporters on July 27, pointing out that the document was not authentic.

“We have received information that a memorandum with subject Immediate Full Closure of Pogo/IGL Operations has been circulating in IGL offices and various social media and messaging platforms,” said Pagcor.

“Please be informed that this office did not issue said memorandum,” it clarified.

Pagcor also assured Pogos or IGLs that their Offshore Gaming Licensing Department would keep them informed about the developments related to the closure, which was ordered by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos.

Marcos announced in his State of Nation Address last July 22 the that Pogos in the country are banned effective immediately.

“Effective today, all Pogos are banned,” he said.

“I hereby instruct the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation to wind down and cease the operations of Pogos by the end of the year,” Marcos also said.

He instructed the Department of Labor and Employment, in coordination with the administration’s economic managers, to use the time “between now and then” to find new jobs for Filipinos who will be displaced.